The world’s first fully electric autonomous cargo ship is preparing to set sail

The world’s first fully electric autonomous cargo ship, the Yara Birkelandis preparing to set sail in Norway by the end of this year. The ship, developed by Norwegian chemical company Yara, runs on hydroelectric power and significantly reduces costs and carbon emissions. The global shipping industry accounts for about 2.5% of greenhouse gas emissions annually.

Zoom In: The Yara Birkeland’s maiden voyage will be 100% crewless. The ship will travel between the Norwegian towns of Herøya and Brevik. Initially, humans will still load and unload the ship, but over time all loading, discharging, and mooring will operate autonomously using AI.