Echandia has signed an agreement with Gotlandsbolaget to supply a battery system for a new hybrid high-speed catamaran operating between Visby and Nynäshamn.
The vessel, Gotland Horizon X, will be built by Austal and is scheduled for delivery in mid-2028. It will have capacity for up to 400 cars and 1,500 passengers and operate at speeds of up to 29kts, enabling a crossing time of just over three hours.
Echandia will provide a 780kWh battery system designed for a 20-year service life. The system will support hybrid operation through functions including peak shaving, load leveling and energy storage and transfer, with the aim of improving energy efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and lowering emissions.
Jonas Moberg, head of new-buildings at Gotlandsbolaget, said, “This project highlights the strength of the Swedish maritime and technology ecosystem, where new technologies can be developed and become competitive in a global market.
“Gotland Horizon X builds on a long tradition of combining innovation with continuous fleet development. This led us to search for an energy storage system that is both safe and fully flexible, while also providing a long-lasting lifecycle. With Echandia’s battery system, we gain flexibility to continuously optimize operations as we learn from real-world use.”
Echandia said its battery systems are designed for marine applications requiring high durability, flexible power output and a high number of charge cycles. The system is intended to support evolving operational profiles over the vessel’s lifetime.
“We are proud that Gotlandsbolaget has chosen Echandia as a partner in their continued transition toward more sustainable maritime ferry operations,” said Torbjörn Bäck, CEO of Echandia. “Our battery is well suited to these hybrid applications, where flexibility in cycling and power outtake is required. Gotlandsbolaget will be able to evolve the operational profile over time as they identify best practices for this specific vessel.”
The project forms part of Gotlandsbolaget’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and modernize its fleet through the adoption of hybrid and low-emission technologies.
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