Three new electric ferries in operation in Indre Sogn
On May 1, all three new electric ferries will be put into operation on the Vangsnes-Hella-Dragsvik route. The link in Sogn now has emission-free ferries in place with increased capacity and passenger comfort.
With the transition from diesel to fully electric operation, CO2 emissions will be significantly reduced. It is expected that each of the three ferries will reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 2,000 tons per year.
-“We are very pleased that the sister ferries are in place. The new ferries increase capacity on the link and help to reduce emissions from ferries in the Sognefjord. The connection further into the Sognefjord, Mannheller-Fodnes, also received new electric ferries in 2021,” says CEO of Norled, Heidi Wolden.
The new electric ferries MF “Hella”, MF “Leikanger” and MF “Dragsvik” have a battery hybrid propulsion system. Charging takes place automatically at the quays at Vangsnes, Hella and Dragsvik. The 82.4-meter-long ferries have a capacity of 80 passenger cars or 10 road trains and 296 passengers.
MF “Hella” was put into service on May 31, 2022, followed by MF “Dragsvik” which was put into operation on December 2, 2022. MF “Leikanger” was put into operation from March 31, 2023. But it is not until May 1, 2023 that all 3 sister ferries sail at the same time.
-“The ferries make little noise and are comfortable to travel on. They also have a large panoramic lounge on the deck above the car deck, which we believe will be appreciated by the many tourists who take this ferry route in the Sognefjord during the high season,” says Captain Gerard Brekke.
He says that the ferries have been well received by passengers and that charging works well for all three ferries.
From 1. In May, the ferries on the route switch to the summer route until October. This means that there is a longer waiting time at the quays. During the winter season, there will again only be two ferries on the route.
