LEIKANGER follows the handover of the sister vessels HELLA and DRAGSVIK, which sailed off in March and July last year.

LEIKANGER runs on lithium-ion batteries charged by hydro-electric energy power. The vessel is also able to operate in hybrid mode utilising combined battery-diesel power as an alternative.

The vessel is equipped with capabilities for optimal performance and enhanced energy efficiency, with features such as quick-connection shore charging plugs, auto-mooring and auto-cross capabilities, efficient hull, propulsion and heat recovery systems, as well as minimised hotel and auxiliary load solutions.

The ferry will be deployed on Norled’s Hella-Vangsnes-Dragsvik connections in Norway, joining the first sister HELLA, which commenced service in May 2022, and second sister vessel DRAGSVIK, which started operations in December 2022. With a service speed of 10 knots, the 82.4m long multi-deck, double-ended ferry has the capacity to carry 300 persons, as well as 80 cars or a combination of up to 10 cars and 10 trailer trucks.

LMG Marin Managing Director Mr Torbjorn Bringedal said: “We are pleased that our proprietary zero-emission Ropax vessel design and innovative hydro-electrification technology have been successfully integrated into the development of Norled’s three battery-operated ferries built by the Group. Custom-designed to fulfill Norled’s sustainability, safety and operational requirements, these ro-pax ferries will further enhance Norled’s strategic positioning as a leading operator of sustainable ferry services.”

Mr Tan Heng Jack, the Company’s Head of Specialised Shipbuilding, said: “Our close partnership with Norled has enabled us to successfully complete the triple ro-pax newbuilds. We join Norled in celebrating the successful completion of LEIKANGER with zero lost-time incident and its sailaway for deployment in Norway, together with sister vessels, HELLA and DRAGSVIK, to enhance Norled’s green fleet operations.”  

Mr Wong Weng Sun, Sembcorp Marine President & CEO, said: “Sembcorp Marine continues to advance environmental sustainability through developing industry-leading solutions to drive the global transition towards cleaner energy solutions and maritime decarbonisation. The successful completion of the final unit of Norled’s series of three zero-emission ro-pax ferries is a validation of our green innovation capabilities and proven expertise in delivering sustainable solutions for the offshore, marine and energy industries.”

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