Brittany Ferries Unveils Battery-Hybrid Vessel: The Modernization of the Guillaume de Normandie

Swedish shipping company Stena RoRo has welcomed the new addition to its fleet, the Guillaume de Normandie, which is the 12th vessel in its E-Flexer series of roll-on/roll-off passenger (RoPax) ferries, delivered from the Chinese shipyard CMI Jinling in Weihai. This 194.7-meter ship will be operated under a long-term charter by French operator Brittany Ferries and is set to commence service in April 2025, replacing the Normandie that has been on the Portsmouth–Caen route since 1992.

The Guillaume de Normandie features innovative hybrid propulsion technology, including multi-fuel engines and a 12 MWh battery-hybrid system, recognized as the largest of its kind globally. This advanced battery system allows the ferry to operate solely on battery power during port maneuvers and docking, leading to a significant reduction in emissions. It is equipped with an 8 MW shore connection for high-speed recharging, ensuring an emissions-free stay at port. Moreover, it can reach speeds of up to 17.5 knots on battery power alone and is designed for potential upgrades for full battery operation in the future.

The vessel has the capacity to carry 1,300 passengers and provides 2,410 lane meters for cargo, with 176 lane meters allocated for personal vehicles. Its versatile design adds to the distinctive flexibility associated with the E-Flexer series, allowing for larger size and adaptable configurations compared to traditional RoPax ferries.

The acquisition of the Guillaume de Normandie is part of a broader fleet modernization strategy by Brittany Ferries, which has already seen the delivery of several new vessels including Galicia, Salamanca, Santona, and Saint-Malo since 2020. With a total of 15 confirmed orders for the E-Flexer series with CMI Jinling, 12 vessels have now been completed, marking a significant step in sustainable maritime operations.

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