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Norwegian Electric Systems partners with SentiSystems to develop Autonomous Zero-Emission ferries operating in Sognefjorden, Norway. Lavik–Oppedal will become world’s first autonomous ferry connection.

Norwegian Electric Systems AS (NES), a subsidiary of HAV Group, has selected SentiSystems, based in Trondheim, as its development partner to enhance and strengthen the autonomous navigation systems and situational awareness for four zero-emission ferries. These vessels will begin operating the Lavik–Oppedal crossing on the northwest coast of Norway from fall 2026.

World’s First Autonomous Ferry Connection

The four new zero-emission ferries are designed for autonomous operation on the 5.6-kilometer Lavik–Oppedal ferry route, which crosses the Sognefjord from Lavik in Høyanger municipality to Ytre Oppedal in Gulen municipality. The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes, and the ferries will be in operation from September 1, 2026. This project contributes to Norway's ambitious goals for greener and more efficient maritime transport.

The ferries are currently under development and will operate with autonomous navigation and a high degree of automation of vessel functions, replacing manual operations. The implementation of automation features and autonomous systems, including autocrossing and autodocking, will take place in 2027, while autonomous navigation is expected to be introduced in 2028.

As a result, Lavik–Oppedal will become the world’s first autonomous ferry connection.

Illustration: Norwegian Electric Systems/HAV Group.

A strategic partnership to drive maritime autonomy

NES will as part of a large equipment delivery and system integration contract supply technology for automated operations and autonomous navigation for the vessels. SentiSystems will work closely with NES to develop sensor fusion to enable smooth handling of local and global navigation to secure the situational awareness even in GNSS denied situations, utilizing their proprietary SentiNAV technology.

Arne Kjørsvik, CEO at SentiSystems, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

"This is an exciting opportunity for us at SentiSystems and an important collaboration where we will contribute with our technology. This project is not only an important contract for us, but also a major step toward creating a more reliable and robust autonomous solution for the global maritime industry."

Fredrik Leira CTO and Arne Kjørsvik CEO in SentiSystems. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster

SentiSystems will develop and implement its sensor fusion technology from their headquarters in Trondheim. This advanced system integrates data from multiple sensors to create a comprehensive, real-time picture of the vessels' surroundings. This capability helps avoid potential hazards, ensures smooth docking, and manages dynamic maritime conditions. It is critical for autonomous ferries to maintain positional accuracy, even in scenarios where GPS signals are disturbed or lost, and understand their surroundings, which is a core contribution of SentiSystems in this partnership. The technology developed by SentiSystems is based on more than 10 years of research at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

The next phase in Autonomous Innovation

Frederik Leira, CTO of SentiSystems, highlighted the importance of sensor fusion in autonomous systems: 

"By leveraging sensor fusion in autonomous vessels, we enable enhanced perception, situational awareness, and improved positioning precision and accuracy, all of which are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of these ferries."

A commitment to sustainability and safety

The partnership between NES and SentiSystems reflects a shared commitment to maritime innovation, environmental responsibility, efficiency and safety. As part of the broader zero-emission initiative, this project aligns with Norway’s national goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector and advancing autonomous technology in maritime operations. 

Senti Systems is member of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator.

“It’s great to see that more and more members of OAC are becoming suppliers of components and new technology in major projects,” says cluster leader Frode Halvorsen of Ocean Autonomy Cluster.

The collaboration between GCE Blue Maritime Cluster member Norwegian Electric Systems and Ocean Autonomy Cluster member SentiSystems demonstrates valuable synergies in line with the MIDAS project's goal to advance autonomous maritime technology as a future Norwegian export industry.

Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster

About SentiSystems

SentiSystems is a technology company based in Trondheim, Norway specializing in sensor fusion technology for robots and autonomous systems. Built on research from NTNU, they provide solutions that enhance precision, safety, and efficiency in advanced robotics, drones, and autonomous vehicles. The company's technology enables accurate positioning even without GPS, giving systems a comprehensive understanding of their surroundings.

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Contact
Arne Kjørsvik CEO, SentiSystems
Cell: +47 932 02 013
e-mail: arne.kjorsvik@sentisystems.com
web: www.sentisystems.com 
in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnekjorsvik/