Image source: Artemis Technologies

World's first electric pilot boat with hydrofoil technology to the Swedish Maritime Administration

In an important step towards greener shipping, the Swedish Maritime Administration has decided to invest in a pioneering electric pilot boat. Described as the only one of its kind, the vessel is powered by a battery engine and equipped with advanced hydrofoil technology. The contract for the boat has recently been signed, and the project is seen as a milestone in Swedish shipping.

The hydrofoil technology allows the boat to "fly" over the water surface at speeds above 14 knots, a feature that can be easily activated by the master. The vessel has a maximum speed of 31 knots and will be completely emission-free during operation.

The Swedish Maritime Administration, which is responsible for maritime safety in Sweden, currently operates around 70 pilot boats at 23 pilot stations along the coast. These boats transport pilots to and from ships to ensure safe port calls, an important task for Swedish shipping. The new electric boat is expected to significantly reduce emissions from these transports. According to calculations from the Swedish Maritime Administration, the new boat can reduce the total emissions from the agency's pilot boat fleet by as much as five percent.

Erik Eklund says this is a revolution for their fleet. It will reduce the carbon footprint and in the long run save costs through lower fuel consumption.

The investment is part of the Swedish Maritime Administration's broader strategy to become fossil-free by 2045. The funding has partly come from a government grant during 2022-2024, specifically aimed at a fossil-free transition.

The vessel is being manufactured by Artemis Technologies in Northern Ireland, and delivery is scheduled for spring 2026. This project not only marks a single investment, but is part of a larger transition in which the Maritime Administration plans to renew most of its fleet within the next ten years.

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