![Photo: MarineTraffic.com/Nils Junge](http://media.assettype.com/bairdmaritime%2Fimport%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F211214-5-Ampereship.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
A new ferry that runs on solar power has begun operational sailings in the northern German city of Rostock.
Warnowstromer was built by local shipyard Ostseestaal to a design by naval architects Ampereship. It has a length of 19.9 metres, a beam of 6.6 metres, and capacity for 80 passengers plus 15 bicycles.
An array of 36 photovoltaic panels supplies power for a 230kWh battery pack, which in turn generates electricity for two 45kW motors. This configuration delivers a maximum speed of 7.5 knots.
Warnowstromer is being operated by local transport company Rostocker Strassenbahn (RSAG).