Hitachi Europe has collaborated with Sweden-based ferry operator Stena Line to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) technology on-board the ships to reduce fuel consumption costs and environmental impact.

Under the collaboration, Hitachi and Stena Line will work together to review the existing digital architecture.

Hitachi will use advanced AI technologies to identify the leading factors causing Stena Line to consume more fuel and, critically, advise how to make operations more efficient.

By reducing fuel consumption, Stena Line is expected to minimise its total cost of operation.

Hitachi Global Digital CEO Hicham Abdessamad said: “Digitalisation plays a key role in helping industries such as shipping optimise their operations for both financial performance and environmental impact.

“Digitalisation plays a key role in helping industries such as shipping optimise their operations for both financial performance and environmental impact.”

“We are engaged with Stena Line on a number of strategic co-creation initiatives and we see this as an important next step in providing digital expertise to help them achieve positive business and societal outcomes.”

Hitachi Europe and its subsidiary companies primarily provide a range of information and telecommunication systems, rail systems, power and industrial systems, as well as other solutions across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Stena Line Digital Strategy head Rune Kleiberg said: “With a structured approach and by taking continuous initiatives, the aim is for Stena Line to become a leader in sustainable shipping.

“We are pleased to have Hitachi on-board to help us in our cognitive journey to improve fleet operation across ship and shore, providing new capabilities for safer and more sustainable ferry journeys, as well as helping improve operational efficiencies and overall vessel performance.”

Stena Line currently operates a fleet of about 38 vessels to serve 21 ferry routes in Scandinavia, Great Britain, and the Baltic countries.