New Oma Baatbyggeri-built electric ferry combines vehicle, passenger and cargo capacity with zero-emission propulsion
Norwegian ferry operator Rødne Trafikk has taken delivery of the new all-electric car and passenger ferry Rygerlys from Oma Baatbyggeri AS in Stord. The 46-metre all-electric combi-catamaran will operate on the Lauvik–Lysebotn route under a 10-year contract with Kolumbus.
Designed to combine operational flexibility with high efficiency and low-emission performance, Rygerlys has a beam of 11 metres and a service speed of 19 knots. The vessel can carry trucks, passenger cars and up to 97 passengers, while also being configured for cargo handling.
Rygerlys is designed to offer high comfort, and is equipped with a modern, all-electric propulsion system that enables emission-free operation on the entire route. The delivery is an important contribution to the development of more sustainable maritime transport and underlines the maritime industry’s role in the green transition.
“We are very satisfied with the cooperation with Oma and the delivery of the new boat. Choosing a local Norwegian shipyard with Norwegian subcontractors gives us the security and predictability we depend on,” says Lars Rødne, CEO of Rødne. “This is also of great importance after the takeover. Proximity to the shipyard, short distances and good accessibility give us security for safe operation and high regularity. This benefits both the company and the travelers .”
The vessel, made of recyclable and seawater-resistant aluminum, was built entirely at Oma Baatbyggeri in Stord in close collaboration with around 20 Norwegian subcontractors. Several local companies have played a central role in the construction process. Teca AS in Stord been responsible for the installation of the electrical system, as well as the radio and navigation equipment. Servogear from Bømlo supplied the vessel’s gear and propeller system, while Fjellstrand in Hardanger contributed to the construction of hull sections. Brunvoll from Tokke in Telemark were responsible for the integration of the electric hybrid propulsion system and the vessel’s monitoring system. In addition, a number of other, mainly Norwegian suppliers have been involved.
“This is our first delivery to Rødne, and we greatly appreciate the trust they have shown us. The project is a good example of value creation that occurs when Norwegian shipping companies choose Norwegian shipyards and Norwegian suppliers. Such contracts provide work for a large number of companies and skilled workers throughout the supply chain. The delivery is important not only for Oma and Rødne, but also for the maritime cluster, the expertise environments and employment along the coast. We are proud to deliver Rygerlys to Rødne and look forward to a good and long-term collaboration,” says Gunnar Jan Oma, CEO of Oma.
Rygerlys has now arrived in Forsand. Here, a period of running-in and testing of the charging infrastructure and quays inland in the Lysefjord awaits, to ensure that the vessel meets all requirements for safety, quality and regularity before it is put into service.
“Rygerlys is an important contribution to emission-free public transport in Rogaland, and will serve the connection in Lysefjorden for ten years. We are pleased with the new vessel, and that it contributes to more sustainable maritime transport in the region,” concludes CEO of Kolumbus, Christina Stangeland.
