Mobility

Solarferry is an electric, solar-powered ferry created to transport tourists and leisure type users along the banks of Lake of Tunis. The exterior of Solarferry boasts modern, dynamic lines and openness. SINTEF asked for a concept inspired by Scandinavian Design that would work anywhere. 

The interior design was created, blending Scandinavian simplicity and minimalism with Tunisian culture and traditional patterns, for example, on the wall behind the bar and the tables. VR (virtual reality) was used in the process to simulate the results.

 invited EGGS as a design partner in the project "Solar Fuelled Electric Maritime Mobility." The project received a United Nations grant and aimed to demonstrate the feasibility and the social, economic, and environmental benefits of solar-fuelled electric boat transport in Tunisia and the wider region. Apart from being an environmentally friendly transport alternative, the ferry should be a memorable experience for the passengers.

Designing a passenger experience out of the ordinary

We created a unique and visually pleasing look by mixing Scandinavian simplicity and minimalism with traditional Tunisian styles.

The vessel would have a large flat ceiling for solar panels.

3 images

Workshop 2 images

By mixing Scandinavian minimalist Design and functionality with Tunisian influences, we could create a feeling of sophistication, lounging, relaxation, and a memorable experience. To create this feeling, we put a lot of energy into choosing 

 (colours, materials, and finish). We ensured that the Design met all specifications regarding accessibility, space, flexibility, and amenities by 

 the layout in real life on a 1:1 scale. 

Societe de Constructions Industrielles et Navales

Product Identity and Colour Material Finish (CMF)

Physical Prototyping and Piloting

Scandinavian minimalism with a Tunisian flair

The specifications for the project included details such as the capacity to transport 30 people, being accessible with a wheelchair as well as holding a captain's cabin and one accessible toilet. To test the layout design, we performed 1:1 scale real-life simulations. This way, we could quickly try out different plans and test the flow of passengers within the space.

The layout of Solarferry seen from above. The lounge-like form is designed to work well both for transporting passengers as well as for social events. It gives tourists an excellent panoramic view of the surroundings.

Top view

Technical drawings

We ensured that the Design created an accessible, flexible, and visually stunning interior- and exterior design for Solar ferry. Thanks to continuous prototyping and testing of interior layouts and Design, we could ensure that the Design is optimised to accommodate both a functional flow of passengers as well as being suitable for social events.

Accessible, flexible, and visually enchanting Design

The Design was also adapted to nighttime, using lighting to create a pleasant atmosphere and keep the space safe. All the interior design was developed in close collaboration with the interior designer in Tunisia, CUBIC Design. 

Designing a solar-powered passenger ferry