A new fully electric combi-catamaran for the Lysefjord marks the next milestone in Rødne’s shift to zero-emission fast ferry operations – with Servogear propulsion at the core.
Rødne, Norway’s leading family-owned fast ferry operator, is building a fully electric combi-catamaran for the Lysefjord. The vessel, now under construction at Oma Baatbyggeri, Stord, will enter long-term service for mobility provider Kolumbus on the Lauvik–Lysebotn route. It is designed to carry trucks, cars and up to 97 passengers in addition to cargo – a flexible solution for mixed commuter and tourist transport.
For any type of vessel, every kilowatt saved matters. For electrically driven vessels, using less energy means smaller battery packs, lower vessel weight, faster charging, and reduced operating costs. Servogear’s Ecoflow Propulsor™ system is designed precisely for this purpose: optimising propulsion efficiency across all speeds and loads, from manoeuvring near piers to open-water cruising.
A partnership built on trust and results
With delivery scheduled in 2026, the new combi-catamaran will join Rødne’s growing fleet of zero-emission vessels. The company already runs the fully electric sightseeing vessel Rygerelektra, also equipped with the Ecoflow Propulsor™ from Servogear, and the new catamaran builds on that experience while adding new functionality for reliable, daily passenger and vehicle transport.
“Efficient propulsion is critical for electric operations. By partnering with Servogear once again, we know we are securing maximum range for our passengers and cargo – while keeping energy consumption to a minimum. Their system helps us operate reliably and on schedule, which is essential for the communities that depend on this route.”
Servogear has collaborated with Rødne and Oma Baatbyggeri on many earlier projects, and the new vessel builds on that history.
“From a yard perspective, it is a major advantage to work with a propulsion supplier that combines decades of experience with a strong focus on innovation. Servogear adapts their solution to each vessel’s operational profile, making our job easier and the final product stronger.”
Delivering efficient public transport at sea
For the combi-catamaran, the Servogear Ecoflow Propulsor™ enables:
- Lower energy use – reducing the size and weight of the battery pack.
- Extended operational range – ensuring operational flexibility.
- Optimised operation – delivering smooth manoeuvring even under varying passenger and cargo loads.
- Enhanced comfort – with minimal vibration and noise for commuters and travellers alike.
“The new vessel further demonstrates how our propulsion solution is crucial in advancing the electrification of the fast ferry sector. It highlights the strength of our enduring partnership with Rødne and Oma Baatbyggeri, allowing us to jointly deliver highly efficient, zero-emission vessels.”
Building the future of zero-emission mobility
The newbuild is scheduled for delivery in 2026. For Servogear, it marks another milestone in supporting operators and shipyards with solutions for commercially viable, environmentally responsible public transport.
“As infrastructure and vessel technology moves forward, efficiency will remain the deciding factor,” Natterøy concludes. “That’s exactly where our propulsion systems make the biggest impact.”
Servogear’s delivery
2 × Ecoflow Propulsor™. Each system includes:
- Hull design / Propeller tunnel – unique design ensuring optimal vessel performance.
- Effect rudder – a twisted rudder minimizing drag while generating forward thrust.
- Controllable pitch propeller – perfects load distribution and propulsion efficiency at all speeds and loads.
- Shaft brackets – streamlined design reducing drag at high speed.
- HD 220 gearbox – reliable power transmission in a compact design.
