The first commercial ferry in the world operating with high power wireless charging capability for its batteries 
Wärtsilä's wireless charging system can transfer more than a MW of electrical energy. Source: Wärtsilähas been tested with Wärtsilä’s automatic wireless induction charging system.
The system, based on inductive power transfer, can transfer more than a MW of electrical energy.
Tests on the Norled, Norway-owned 85-m long hybrid powered coastal ferry MF Folgefonn involved technology designed to maintain efficient power transfer at distances of 50 cm between the two charging plates built into the side of the vessel and the quay.
The technology obviates the cable connection between the vessel and shore, and reduces maintenance since wear and tear to physical connection lines is eliminated.
“During recent years, wireless charging has been introduced for cars, buses and trains. We have now made this possible for marine vessels. The main benefits for customers are up to 20 percent more utilization of the available charging time, increased operational safety, and greater system reliability. There is an ongoing trend to equip coastal ferries with battery powered and hybrid propulsion since they are particularly affected by environmental regulatory demands. Wireless charging will, therefore, create considerable value for operators of hybrid ferries,” said Ingve Sørfonn, Senior Technical Officer E&A, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.
