The study was driven by rapidly advancing battery capabilities, falling energy-storage costs, and the accelerating impact of EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime regulations. Taken together, these factors are now shifting the economics in favour of zero-emission vessels on high-frequency, short-distance routes.

According to the study, fully electric RoPax vessels operating between 2030 and 2040 could deliver 8 to 15% lower lifetime costs compared to diesel-powered alternatives, despite higher upfront investment. Operational cost reductions of 20 to 27% are achievable through lower energy costs and the removal of emissions-related expenses.

Among the European services examined, several routes stand out due to a combination of short sailing distances, high utilisation, and favourable port conditions. Corridors such as Dover–Calais, Tallinn–Helsinki, and several Scandinavian and Baltic connections offer particularly strong foundations for electrification, with infrastructure readiness and traffic density playing a key role.

To support operators making long-term investment decisions, Kongsberg Maritime has developed two fully electric RoPax concept designs: a cargo-focused vessel optimised for efficient operations at lower speeds, and a higher-speed passenger-oriented design suitable for routes with strong public-transport and tourism demand.

Both RoPax designs are more than 200 metres in length and include modular battery rooms, intelligent energy-management systems, and auto docking and auto crossing capabilities. They feature advanced propulsion set-ups with electric podded propulsors, aiming to reduce system complexity and improve overall energy efficiency.