Sweden-based ferry operator Stena Line has ordered two hybrid E-Flexer ferries from China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard, expanding its E-Flexer fleet to seven vessels.
The new ferries will operate on the Gothenburg–Frederikshavn route, replacing the Stena Danica and Stena Jutlandica, which entered service on the route in 1984 and 1996, respectively.
The vessels will use hybrid propulsion, allowing them to run on conventional fuel or electricity. They will also be designed for conversion to fully electric operation once suitable charging infrastructure is available.
The new ferries will increase freight capacity on the route, with Stena Line also highlighting opportunities to develop intermodal freight connections following its planned move to a new port location in Arendal.
“This is a historic investment for Stena Line, giving us the opportunity to take further steps towards the sustainable modernisation of our fleet,” said CEO Niclas Mårtensson.
The two vessels will be built at China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard, which has delivered 15 E-Flexer vessels to date.
