A new standard for electric ferries
On Friday, June 6, MF Hinnøy began regular operations on the Bognes–Lødingen route – the most heavily trafficked ferry connection in Northern Norway.
The brand-new, fully electric ferry not only marks a new era for passengers and local communities, but also represents a major step forward in Torghatten’s green fleet renewal.
“Hinnøy is built to operate for many years to come and is an excellent vessel for both passengers and crew,” says Torghatten interrim CEO Stein Andre Herigstad-Olsen.
World-leading charging capacity
The Bognes–Lødingen route is now home to the world’s most powerful charging facility for electric ferries. With a charging capacity of 9.2 megawatts, a new global benchmark has been set for electric ferry operations.
“As far as we know, this is a world record in charging capacity for ferries,” says Herigstad-Olsen.
This exceptional power output makes it possible to operate a fully electric, enclosed ferry on a weather-exposed route with a crossing time of one hour and speeds up to 14 knots – completely emission-free.
Comfort and space
MF Hinnøy has a capacity of 120 passenger car units (PCU) and a gross tonnage of nearly 7,200 tons. The vessel is universally designed and offers greater space and higher comfort for passengers compared to older ferries.
The ferry is certified for navigation in navigation area C and has been specially adapted for the demanding conditions along this route.
“What makes Hinnøy truly unique is that we combine fully electric propulsion with long crossings, high speed, and a weather-exposed route – and we do it with an enclosed ferry. Typically, you would see open ferries and shorter crossings,” explains Herigstad-Olsen.
Major team effort
The project has been a significant undertaking for Torghatten, and the CEO praises the team that followed up the construction process:
“The project team has done an outstanding job and helped ensure the level of quality we demand. This is an important step for the environment – and a milestone in the electrification of coastal transport in Norway.”
Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the project – and we wish all passengers a great journey aboard MF Hinnøy