Gestione Navigazione Laghi, an Italian inland ferry operator managing almost 100 vessels on Italy’s three largest lakes Garda, Maggiore and Como, is engaged in an ambitious modernization program to minimize its fleet’s environmental impact. ABB supports these efforts with its expertise in modernizing vessels in the short-distance shipping segment for smoother and more sustainable operations.
The latest notable step in Navigazione Laghi’s continuous journey of improvement is replacing the conventional diesel propulsion system of its 42-meter Lake Garda ferry, Adamello, with a cleaner, more efficient hybrid-electric propulsion system. The retrofit work took place at Peschiera del Garda shipyard.
After supporting the successful modernization of San Cristoforo in 2021, ABB supplied a hybrid-electric propulsion system for Adamello that will take us another step closer to achieving our fleet decarbonization goals.
“After supporting the successful modernization of San Cristoforo in 2021, ABB supplied a hybrid-electric propulsion system for Adamello that will take us another step closer to achieving our fleet decarbonization goals,” said Paolo Mazzucchelli, Technical Director, Gestione Navigazione Laghi. “Thanks to ABB’s technical expertise and proven track record in delivering efficient and sustainable solutions for the short-distance shipping segment, the collaboration has been successful also this time.”
Like San Cristoforo, Adamello features an integrated electric propulsion and automation system based on ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™. The compact solution is specially designed to help smaller vessels optimize fuel efficiency by making the best use of available power. It will also enable time-efficient installation as well as space savings in the engine room.
As a further benefit of retrofitting an older vessel with modern, hybrid-electric technology, Adamello’s service life has been extended by decades, while the availability of spare parts and support is greatly enhanced. Passengers benefit from improved comfort due to reduced emissions, vibrations and machinery noise, while taking in their spectacular setting.
“Our first project with Navigazione Laghi was a great success, and we are proud to support them in another significant step towards more sustainable ferry operations on the Italian lakes,” said Tomas Arhippainen, Head of Marine Service & Digital, ABB Marine & Ports. “One of the core objectives of ABB is to help our customers in decarbonizing their operations ship by ship.”
Gestione Navigazione Laghi, an Italian inland ferry operator managing almost 100 vessels on Italy’s three largest lakes Garda, Maggiore and Como, is engaged in an ambitious modernization program to minimize its fleet’s environmental impact. Image credit ABB 
Passengers benefit from improved comfort due to reduced emissions, lower vibrations and less machinery noise, while enjoying their spectacular surroundings. Image credit ABB
The project’s positive environmental impact extends beyond the capabilities of the technology itself. By offering an alternative means of transport, Adamello’s continued service helps to reduce road traffic congestion – and therefore emissions – around Lake Garda. Meanwhile, Navigazione Laghi’s choice to retrofit rather than replace the vessel will minimize the amount of energy required to support the project.
In addition to Onboard DC Grid™, ABB’s comprehensive scope of supply comprises batteries and battery management, electric propulsion and control, shore charging, ship automation and alarm monitoring, a remote alarm system and commissioning services.
