The delivery of the “Futura” to Scandlines is drawing closer: the 147.4 m long emission-free ferry newbuild has successfully completed its second test voyage in the Sea of Marmara.
The vessel is now being prepared for its transfer to Northern Europe. The newbuild was previously developed at the Turkish Cemre shipyard for operation on the Puttgarden-Rødby route. The unit has a capacity for 66 cargo units and can accommodate up to 140 passengers.
The all-electric unit was thoroughly tested under realistic conditions in close cooperation with the Cemre shipyard and supervised by the classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR). The tests included blackout simulations, checking the navigation systems and automatic safety tests.
“With our new zero-emission ferry, we are taking another big step towards a greener future for ferry transport. We are combining sustainable technology with high capacity and efficient operation – to the benefit of the environment and our customers,” explains Rasmus Nielsen, VP Fleet and Administration at Scandlines.
Scandlines: Powerful battery system and fast charging times
At the heart of the “Futura” is a battery system with a capacity of 10 MWh. After arriving in the Fehmarnbelt, the ferry is expected to be charged in just 17 minutes at the terminal in Rødby from the fall.
A newly installed 50 kV / 25 MW power cable and a transformer station will make this fast charging process possible. An intelligent charging station ensures automatic connection within 15 seconds, regardless of the water level and ship movements.
A complete charging system has also been installed on the German side in Puttgarden, which enables the batteries to be recharged in just 12 minutes. This will enable the ferry to operate emission-free in both directions on the 45-minute crossing from the end of 2025. The ship is also equipped with three diesel generators for the crossing to ensure hybrid operation and maximum flexibility.
Scandlines is investing approximately €80 million in the project. The official christening of the new unit is planned for this fall, coinciding with the launch of regular operations on the Fehmarnbelt route.
Information on the new Scandlines building
- Length: 147.4 m
- Width: 25.4 m
- Construction draught: 5.30 m
- Loading capacity: 66 freight units (approx. 1,200 loading meters)
- Passenger capacity: 140
- Service speed: 16/10 knots
- Crossing time: 45 minutes (from 2025)
- Battery system: 10 MWh
- Charging time in port: 12 minutes (from 2025)
- Direct emissions during the crossing: 0
- Investment: € 80 million
