Scandlines’ new zero direct emissions ferry approaching launch

Preparations at the Cemre shipyard in Turkey, and at ferry terminals in Puttgarden and Rødby, continue ahead of the deployment of Scandlines’ new zero direct emissions freight ferry, which will be launched in Q4 2023.

Construction work on the vessel – carrying the working title PR24 (Puttgarden-Rødby 2024) – is progressing according to schedule. Q4 will see the ferry come into contact with water for the first time when the hull is sent from the slipway into the sea. The ship will then be moored at the outfitting quay, where the remaining work will be carried out.

The ferry terminals in Puttgarden and Rødby must also be prepared for the use of the PR24. Scandlines is currently installing a new, stronger ramp to the upper car deck in Ferry Berth 3 in Rødby, as the PR24 will be transporting lorries on the upper and lower deck. At present, a large crane is removing the current 59m ramp to the upper car deck.

When the ferry starts operating on the Fehmarn Belt in 2024, the 10MWh battery system will be capable of charging in just 17 minutes in Rødby, utilizing green power. In 2019, Scandlines invested in a 50kV/25MW power cable to Rødbyhavn. This cable has now been extended approximately 1.2km to the new transformer between Ferry Berth 2 and 3. Supplier NES (Norwegian Electric Systems) is expected to begin the installation of the transformer, control and switchgear equipment and charging station for the new ferry in the autumn.

Scandlines is also investing in a 30kV/15MW power cable, including transformer and charging station, for the port of Puttgarden. As of 2025, this will reduce the charging time to just 12 minutes in each port and enable the ferry to cover the 18.5km between Puttgarden and Rødby in 45 minutes with zero direct emissions.