Sweden’s largest hybrid-electric car ferry Tellus is expected to enter into operation by the end of the summer on the Gullmarsleden route.

The 1.8km-wide Gullmarsleden waterway connects Uddevalla to Lysekil.

Built and delivered by Baltic Workboats shipyard, the 100m-long ferry can carry cars, heavy trucks and nearly 300 passengers.

The ship will be operated by the Swedish Transport Administration and is mainly set to operate on fully-electric mode. The ferry will transport around 100,000 vehicles each month, primarily comprising heavy trucks.

The introduction of electric-ferry forms part of the Swedish government’s plan to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.

For the new ferry, Danfoss Editron provided the propulsion system and electric power plant, which is connected to the 12 battery-racks provided by Corvus batteries, with a total capacity of 949kWh.

The batteries are currently charged at night through an onshore charging station. They can also be powered by diesel engines during sailing in the water.

The power plant is equipped with Editron load control system, which automatically controls the system to reduce fuel consumption once the hybrid system is activated.

The ferry will operate on a single generator in hybrid-electric mode, while the remaining propulsion system will obtain power from the batteries.

Danfoss Editron project manager Jani Hartikka said: “Similar ferries are already in operation in Finland and Norway, so we are thrilled to see Sweden joining the movement.

“The electrification of the marine industry is a trend which will continue to grow as more countries introduce legislation related to reducing emissions in the sector.”

Baltic Workboats electrical engineer Marek Müürisepp said: “The Tellus ferry is a technical feat and we are looking forward to seeing more ferries of its kind enter operation on Swedish waters.”