With the recent launch of ferry numbers 3 and 4, the delivery of four new ferries for the Lavik–Oppedal project has been completed. Fjord1 and HAV Group have thus taken another major step towards full-scale autonomous operation, with vessels that combine advanced energy systems, autodocking and collision avoidance in an integrated solution developed in Norway.

The ferries are designed to deliver an unprecedented level of automation and will be the first in the world to combine such a high degree of autonomy with full-scale operation on a demanding route. At the core of the solution is the interaction between vessel design, energy systems and control systems.

“The ship design has been developed with autonomy as a fundamental premise – demonstrating how good design can make advanced technology both safer and more operational in everyday service,” says Stig Magne Espeseth, SVP Design at HAV Design.

FROM DESIGN TO OPERATION: THE SYSTEMS ENABLING AUTONOMY
The solution enabling autonomous operation has been developed and delivered by HAV Group and its subsidiaries and is based on the close interaction between purpose-designed ship architecture and advanced systems for energy, propulsion and control. HAV Design is responsible for the vessel design, optimised for energy efficiency, predictable operation and seamless integration of autonomous functions. Norwegian Electric Systems has delivered the energy system, electric propulsion, battery solutions and a comprehensive control system enabling automatic vessel control, fjord crossings, autodocking and advanced collision avoidance.

“The autonomy solution is about more than a single function. It is the interaction between sensor systems, control, autodocking and collision avoidance that allows the vessel to operate stably and safely with minimal intervention,” says Ole Georg Rørhus, Vice President Technology at HAV Group ASA.

The project demonstrates how the combination of advanced technology and operational experience can help strengthen safety, reliability and environmental performance in ferry operations.

OPERATION WITH MINIMAL INTERVENTION – MONITORED FROM SHORE
The technologies now being deployed on the Lavik–Oppedal route are the result of many years of development and close collaboration between the ferry operator, technology suppliers and authorities. Under normal operating conditions, the ferries will be able to operate with minimal human intervention, while control and monitoring functions are handled from a modern shore-based operations centre.