A small ship making history
The MF Estelle, touted as the world’s first remotely operated electric ferry, has successfully completed its trial voyage in central Stockholm.
This milestone, unveiled by the RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, showcases the future of unmanned, eco-friendly transport.
Key trial highlights
The 12-meter-long catamaran, designed by Norwegian ferry builder Brødrene Aa, was remotely controlled from Trondheim, Norway, 600 km away. During the test, it sailed from Stockholm’s Kungsholmen to Södermalm—navigating autonomously with just a push of a button. This trial marks a significant step in developing smart, sustainable vessels for urban waterways.
Sustainability at its core
MF Estelle’s lightweight carbon fiber design and solar-powered electric propulsion make it highly energy efficient. It’s equipped with advanced tech—AI, GPS, lidar, radar, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors—to navigate independently. Initially, an operator will be onboard, but the goal is for full autonomy with land-based monitoring.
Vision for the Future Zeabuz, the Norwegian company behind the project, envisions using urban waterways as “virtual bridges” to connect cities sustainably. Partnering with Torghatten Midt, they aim to expand this zero-emission solution worldwide. Plans are also in place to enhance communication between the ferry and its control center using 5G technology.
This breakthrough highlights growing interest in autonomous vessels, with both Sweden and Norway actively exploring emission-free, autonomous maritime transport for future city mobility.
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