- Guillaume de Normandie, the twelfth E-Flexer vessel in a series of 15, has been delivered by Stena RoRo from the CMI Jinling (Weihai) shipyard in China.
- Chartered to Brittany Ferries for a 10-year term, this advanced vessel will replace the Normandie, which has served the Portsmouth-Caen route since 1992.
- As reported by Cision, The new ship will commence operations in April 2025.
Cutting-Edge Hybrid Technology
As the fifth E-Flexer vessel ordered by Brittany Ferries, Guillaume de Normandie boasts innovative features including multi-fuel engines and the market’s largest battery-hybrid package, with a capacity of 12 MWh. This allows the ship to operate entirely on battery power during port maneuvers, ensuring zero emissions during docking and undocking. Equipped with a scalable PTI/PTO system and shore connection enabling high-speed charging (8 MW output), the ship is designed to meet future environmental standards.
The vessel’s engines can run on marine diesel (MGO), LNG, biodiesel, or biogas. Combined with its battery capabilities, Guillaume de Normandie can operate at speeds of up to 17.5 knots on batteries alone, paving the way for entirely battery-powered operations in the future.
Enhanced Sustainability and Performance
Through its optimized hull, propellers, and rudder design, the E-Flexer concept delivers superior energy efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. The hybrid system alone significantly reduces the ship’s environmental footprint, aligning with Stena RoRo’s commitment to future-proofing maritime operations.
Modern Design for Passengers and Cargo
Tailored for the Portsmouth-Caen route, Guillaume de Normandie features a modern interior inspired by Normandy. Designed by Figura Arkitekter AB, the ship accommodates 1,300 passengers, 222 cabins, and 2,410 lane meters of cargo, with 176 lane meters reserved for personal vehicles.
E-Flexer Fleet Expansion
The delivery of Guillaume de Normandie marks a milestone in Stena RoRo’s ongoing E-Flexer program. To date, 12 E-Flexer vessels have been delivered, with orders for three more in progress. The E-Flexer series caters to diverse customer requirements, emphasizing sustainability and innovation in RoPax vessel design.
Stena E-Flexer Orders Overview
- Brittany Ferries: 5 vessels delivered between 2020 and 2024
- Stena Line: 5 vessels for the Irish Sea network
- DFDS: 1 vessel for their network
- Marine Atlantic: 1 vessel with LNG-battery hybrid operation
- Corsica Linea and Attica Group: Deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2027
Vessel Specifications (Guillaume de Normandie)
- Length: 194.7 m
- Beam: 27.8 m
- Passenger Capacity: 1,300
- Cargo Lane Meters: 2,410 (176 for personal cars)
- Speed: 23 knots (17.5 knots on batteries)
Statement from Stena RoRo
Per Westling, Managing Director of Stena RoRo, expressed pride in delivering the twelfth E-Flexer vessel, highlighting its advanced hybrid system and environmental compatibility. “The Guillaume de Normandie exemplifies our commitment to sustainable and future-ready maritime solutions.”
This latest delivery underscores Stena RoRo’s leadership in designing eco-efficient RoPax vessels, continuing their legacy of innovation since 1977.
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Source: Cision
