A project to build the world’s largest 3D-printed, autonomous, electric ferry is underway in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Voies Navigables de France (VNF), the country’s navigation authority, launched a competition with the Delegate Minister of Transport of France, Clément Beaune, to promote innovation in sustainable maritime transport.
Sequana Développement, Roboat and Holland Shipyards Group were winners with their eco-friendly ferry project. Its design (shown above) features a 3D-printed hull made from recycled materials, an electric propulsion system, and level 4 automation. The ferry will be 29.5 feet long and 12.7 feet wide, with a capacity up to 35 passengers.
Scheduled to debut in the summer of 2024, the ship will transport visitors and athletes in an environmentally friendly manner during the Olympic Games. The exact location of operation will be announced closer to the event.
Other winning projects include a 49-foot electric riverboat designed by Hyke Rivercat, Juvisy, and Ris Orangis Construction, and a 39-foot electric riverboat from Bluenav, Orion Naval Engineering, Drone Protect System, Keolis, E Nautical Harbor Bordeaux, and Metropolis. . from Bordeaux.
“From 10 to 50 seats, the three demo projects we have selected have one thing in common, beyond their driving range and their low carbon engines, they have the ambition to contribute to the games environmental excellence goals and to be part of the legacy of 2024”, said Thierry Guimbaud, CEO of VNF.
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