Norwegian Electric Systems partners with SentiSystems to develop Autonomous Zero-Emission ferries operating in Sognefjorden, Norway
Trondheim, 29 October 2024 – Norwegian Electric Systems AS (NES), a subsidiary of HAV Group, has selected SentiSystems, based in Trondheim, as its development partner to enhance and strengthen the autonomous navigation systems and situational awareness for four zero-emission ferries. These vessels will begin operating the Lavik–Oppedal crossing on the northwest coast of Norway from fall 2026.
The four new zero-emission ferries are designed for autonomous operation, across the 5.6-kilometer Lavik–Oppedal ferry route, which crosses the Sognefjord, from Lavik in Høyanger municipality to Ytre Oppedal in Gulen municipality. The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes, and the vessels will be operational from 1 September 2026, contributing to Norway’s ambitious goals for greener, more efficient maritime transport.
A strategic partnership to drive maritime autonomy
NES will as part of a large equipment delivery and system integration contract supply technology for automated operations and autonomous navigation for the vessels. SentiSystems will work closely with NES to develop sensor fusion to enable smooth handling of local and global navigation to secure the situational awareness even in GNSS denied situations, utilizing their proprietary SentiNAV technology.
Arne Kjørsvik, CEO at SentiSystems, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:
This is an exciting opportunity for us at SentiSystems and an important collaboration where we will contribute with our technology. This project is not only an important contract for us, but also a major step toward creating a more reliable and robust autonomous solution for the global maritime industry.
SentiSystems will develop and implement its sensor fusion technology from their headquarters in Trondheim. This advanced system integrates data from multiple sensors to create a comprehensive, real-time picture of the vessels' surroundings. This capability helps avoid potential hazards, ensures smooth docking, and manages dynamic maritime conditions. It is critical for autonomous ferries to maintain positional accuracy, even in scenarios where GPS signals are disturbed or lost, and understand their surroundings, which is a core contribution of SentiSystems in this partnership. The technology developed by SentiSystems is based on more than 10 years of research at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
The next phase in Autonomous Innovation
Frederik Leira, CTO of SentiSystems, highlighted the importance of sensor fusion in autonomous systems:
By leveraging sensor fusion in autonomous vessels, we enable enhanced perception, situational awareness, and improved positioning precision and accuracy, all of which are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of these ferries.
A commitment to sustainability and safety
The partnership between NES and SentiSystems reflects a shared commitment to maritime innovation, environmental responsibility, efficiency and safety. As part of the broader zero-emission initiative, this project aligns with Norway’s national goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector and advancing autonomous technology in maritime operations.
We’d be thrilled to discuss this further or provide additional details and visuals if needed. Please let us know if you’d be interested in covering this development.
Contact Arne Kjørsvik, CEO, SentiSystems, +47 932 02 013'
e-mail: arne.kjorsvik@sentisystems.com
web: www.sentisystems.com