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Scandlines Launches Battery-Electric Freight Ferry ‘Baltic Whale’ on Fehmarnbelt Route

German shore power is expected by late March after delays.

Overview

  • The 147-meter vessel entered service after a March 10 maiden voyage between Rødby and Puttgarden.
  • Only Rødbyhavn can currently recharge the 10 MWh batteries as Puttgarden’s grid connection lags, with SH Netz work slated to finish by the end of March.
  • High-power shore charging refills the battery in about 12 minutes, enabling roughly 45-minute, emission-free crossings of the 18.5-kilometre strait, with diesel generators reserved for backup.
  • Configured for freight, the ship carries 66 units on two decks, raises route capacity by about 27 percent, and can transport specified hazardous goods with up to 140 passengers.
  • Scandlines invested about €84 million in the project and has begun retiring the older Kronprins Frederik as part of a 2040 goal of operating without direct emissions.