For the first time in the world, a large automatic ferry runs 240km in the Sea of ​​Japan

The 222m-long Soleil ferry reached a maximum speed of 48km/h when testing autonomously on the Iyonada sea, even performing the docking itself.

For the first time in the world, a 222-meter-long vehicle ferry automatically navigates and travels 240 kilometers in the Iyonada Sea of ​​Japan. The ferry named Soleil even performs docking operations on its own.

The Soleil ferry runs automatically on the Sea of ​​Japan. (Photo: Nippon Foundation).

The show took place on January 17, part of the Smart Coastal Ferry project with technology developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Company and Shin Nihonkai Ferry Company. The project is part of a larger project called the Meguri 2040 Automatic Train Navigation System by the Nippon Foundation.

Soleil first operated on July 1 of last year and was piloted by the crew. During several seven-hour trips spanning 240 kilometers between the Shinmoji and Iyonada areas, the ferry's Super Bridge-X automated navigation system aggregated route data. The show on January 17 was the first time that only this system was controlled. During the trip, Soleil reached a top speed of 48 km / h.

Along with GPS, the navigation system also uses multiple infrared cameras to detect and avoid other ships (whether day or night), an engine monitoring system to ensure everything is running smoothly. In addition, Soleil is equipped with an automatic docking and disembarking system that can rotate and reverse, allowing it to dock and leave easily.

The development of such technologies enhances maritime safety, reduces the need for crew labor and reduces operating costs, according to Mitsubishi. Some other performances of the Meguri 2040 project will also take place from January to March.