Echandia has signed a new agreement with Gotlandsbolaget for the supply of a battery system for a new hybrid high-speed catamaran operating between Visby and Nynäshamn.
The battery system, which is designed for a 20-year service life, will be utilised on the Gotland Horizon X, which will have capacity for up to 400 cars and 1,500 passengers.
Constructed by Australian shipbuilder Austal Limited, the vessel is expected to debut in mid-2028, and will be able to operate at 29 knots, allowing for a crossing time between Gotland and mainland Sweden of just over three hours.
The installed battery system will feature a capacity of 780 kWh, and has been designed to secure efficient hybrid operation via functions such as peak shaving, load levelling, and energy storage and transfer, allowing for optimised energy consumption, reduced fuel usage and lower operation emissions.
Jonas Moberg, Head of Newbuildings, Gotlandsbolaget, said:This project highlights the strength of the Swedish maritime and technology ecosystem, where new technologies can be developed and become competitive in a global market. Gotland Horizon X builds on a long tradition of combining innovation with continuous fleet development.
This led us to search for an Energy Storage System that is both safe and fully flexible, while also providing a long-lasting lifecycle.
With Echandia’s battery system, we gain flexibility to continuously optimise operations as we learn from real-world use. Our ambition is not only to reduce emissions, but to build vessels that can evolve over time.
