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Rolls-Royce has signed contracts with Bastø-Fosen and Fjord 1 in Norway for azimuth propulsion systems for five new double-ended ferries. The ferries are scheduled to enter into service along the coast of Norway in the summer of 2016.

The contract value to Rolls-Royce is GBP 5.5 million (approximately $8.1 million) in total. All five ferries are designed by Multi Maritime and are to be constructed in Turkey at the yards Sefine, Cemre and ADA.

The new double-ended ferries are designed to commute back and forth between ferry quays along the rugged Norwegian coastline. Three of the ferries are to be delivered to Bastø-Fosen and will be 142 metres long, with capacity for 200 cars, 600 passengers and between 24 and 30 trucks.

The two remaining ferries are to be delivered to Fjord 1 and will be 74 metres in length, with capacity for 60 cars and up to 199 passengers.

Azimuth thrusters from Rolls-Royce are designed to help give the ferries improved steering stability and manoeuvrability. The thrusters are also equipped with full-feathering propellers so the operator can reduce the amount of engine power needed during crossings. This in turn will help reduce fuel consumption and also increase the overall efficiency of the vessels.

Helge Gjerde, Rolls-Royce, SVP Commercial Marine, said: "We are very proud to support these ferries which are part of Norway's key coastal transportation system. Norwegian ferry owners have been in the forefront of ship technology for many years, and seek environmental friendly and reliable solutions for travelling in the Norwegian fjords and along the coastline. It's also close to home for us, with our Rolls-Royce Marine base in Norway."

The three larger Bastø-Fosen ferries are equipped with two Azipull 100 azimuth thrusters which are placed one in each end of the ferry. They also have Rolls-Royce Helicon X3 propulsion control systems. The two Fjord 1 ferries each have Azipull AZP85 azimuth thrusters, also with Helicon X3 propulsion control systems.