Zeabuz, the Zero-Emission Waterbus Concept

MarineLink December 17, 2019

Zeabuz’ (zero-emission sea-bus) is an all-electric waterbus concept designed to provide autonomous mobility services to cities and towns, carrying 10-30 passengers at a time. Image: Zeabuz

While Norway ranks 120th among countries globally in terms of population size (5.3 million), it packs a powerful punch in the maritime world, as Norwegians rank near the top as maritime and offshore industry innovators.

As the global maritime markets enters a transcendent period – with decarbonization, digitalization and autonomy on the horizon – innovation from Norway stands strong as the Norwegian university of science and technology (NTNU) has established a new firm, Zeabuz, to promote and build upon its newly developed autonomous waterbus concept for emission-free waterways transportation.

“Our autonomy solution is world-leading and can enable self-driving ferries that safely maneuver among other boats, dock to the quay by themselves and handle passengers safely,” said Susanne Jäschke, Zeabuz Interim CEO. “We work with DNV GL, the Norwegian Coastal Administration and the Norwegian Maritime Directorate to test two prototypes in Trondheim. The unique technology has been developed at NTNU and will be made available to the company.”

NTNU researchers and entrepreneurs behind Zeabuz include Asgeir J. Sørensen of Marine Cybernetics, Ecotone and Eelume; Tor Arne Johansen of Marine Cybernetics, Scout Drone Inspection, and UBIQ Aerospace, and Egil Eide of 3D radar. The company is now seeking to grow its ranks and attract further talent from Norway and beyond.

"Autonomy fits like a glove with electric ferries,” says Asgeir J. Sørensen, director of NTNU's research centre on autonomous maritime operations, NTNU AMOS. “This enables better control, optimal operation, safety and maintenance.”