A hybrid-electric ferry called the Altera is to feature Schottel’s high-efficiency azimuth thrusters. The vessel is the latest addition to the FinFerries fleet and is currently under construction at the Crist shipyard in Poland ahead of entering operation in 2023.
The ferry’s propulsion system will consist of two electrically driven Schottel EcoPellers type SRE 430, capable of outputting 950kW each. The SRE 430 features a propeller with a diameter of 2.35m and the azimuth thrusters have been ice-strengthened in accordance with Finnish-Swedish Ice Class 1B, enabling the ferry to carry out operations all-year-round in Southwest Finland’s icy waters.
The 100m-long and 17m-wide Altera has a battery capacity of 2 x 0.6MWh, meaning the vessel can sail solely on battery power when serving its routes. Charging of the batteries will be carried out at shore when loading and unloading. If needed, diesel generator sets will serve as a power backup.
With its hydrodynamically optimized design, the EcoPeller is capable of generating maximum steering forces. This enables the ferry to deliver a high level of overall efficiency and course stability, reducing fuel consumption, operating costs and emissions.
The ferry has space for up to 90 cars and 375 passengers.
“Altera means proud, excellent, which is well suited as we are proud of this technology and are thrilled to welcome another eco-friendly electrically powered ferry to Finland,” commented Mats Rosin, CEO, Suomen Lauttaliikenne. “By supplying efficient and sustainable EcoPellers, Schottel makes a significant contribution on our path towards a greener future.”