Industrial battery manufacturer Saft has received an order from Swedish ferry operator Ballerina for lithium-ion battery systems that will power a new electric ferry for the city of Stockholm.

When it starts operation in September, Ballerina’s ferry will carry foot passengers and cyclists between 10 stops on a 50-minute route of Stockholm’s waterways. The batteries will be fully charged overnight, with two partial charging sessions during the course of the day.

Saft will supply marine battery systems with a total energy storage capacity of 500 kWh, at 650 V. The Li-ion cells will be manufactured at Saft’s facility at Nersac, and the energy storage systems units will be delivered in May.

Saft has considerable experience of supplying Li-ion battery systems to the marine sector. In 2013, the company supplied batteries for two new hybrid battery/diesel ferryboats for the city of Bordeaux, and a battery-powered shuttle boat in Paris.

Christer Steen, Saft’s Sales Manager for the Nordic countries, said, “Saft is a pioneer in electrically powered vessels, which are growing in popularity and offer the promise of low operating costs, quiet operation and reduced emissions. Saft sees significant potential in this market.”

Source: Saft