Torghatten Plans Self-Driving Ferry Route Near Trondheim with Kongsberg’s Autonomous Technology
Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten is set to revolutionize ferry services by introducing self-driving technology on the Flakk-Rorvik route near Trondheim. Partnering with Kongsberg, a leader in autonomous shipping, Torghatten aims to develop a cutting-edge system that enhances safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
Self-Driving Ferries to Serve Trondheim’s Key Route
Torghatten will retrofit its existing car ferries on the Flakk-Rorvik route with advanced self-driving technology. This route, which starts from a terminal six miles west of central Trondheim, connects the city to the Fosen peninsula, located four miles across the Trondheim Fjord. Without the ferry, a journey around the fjord would take approximately three hours, making this service crucial for local communities.
Cutting-Edge Autonomous Technology
Under the new agreement, the ferries will utilize Kongsberg’s state-of-the-art auto-docking, auto-crossing, collision avoidance, and situational awareness systems. This technology aims to address staffing shortages and adhere to regulatory guidelines, ensuring a reliable and efficient service.
“Self-driving ferries can significantly enhance safety, punctuality, and energy efficiency,” stated Jan-Egil Wagnild, Torghatten’s technology director. “By automating routine tasks, the crew can focus more on monitoring the sea, improving overall operational safety. Additionally, the industry faces recruitment challenges, and this technology can alleviate some of these staffing pressures.”
Kongsberg’s Proven Expertise in Autonomous Shipping
Kongsberg is renowned for its innovative autonomy projects, including the all-electric autonomous container feeder Yara Birkeland and the electric cargo ferries for Norwegian grocery operator ASKO. Kongsberg also operates a remote operations center for unmanned vessels in Horten, Norway. However, Torghatten’s ferries will continue to be manned, ensuring a balance between automation and human oversight.
Pal Andre Eriksen, Kongsberg’s SVP of autonomous solutions, emphasized the importance of this project for the broader maritime industry. “While we have the basic technology, optimizing and expanding it requires deployment on commercial vessels. This project is a step towards building a globally competitive industry around maritime autonomy.”
Optimizing and Expanding Autonomous Maritime Solutions
Kongsberg and Torghatten are optimistic about the project’s potential to drive regulatory advancements and set new standards in maritime operations. The collaboration aims to create a sustainable, efficient, and safe ferry service that can be scaled and commercialized for a global market.
For more information on Torghatten’s self-driving ferry initiative and Kongsberg’s autonomous solutions, stay tuned to updates from these pioneering companies as they shape the future of maritime transport.
