Arrival Ferry Concept

The vision behind the FERRY concept was to transform Rotterdam’s waterways from barriers into connections, creating equal opportunities for all citizens. The aim of this project was to conceptualise a network of autonomous, modular and sustainable water taxis that would bridge the north and south sides of the city. The main goals were to improve accessibility, promote sustainable transport and create a flexible shuttle system that could adapt to Rotterdam’s changing urban landscape.

Conducting research to gather insights

Our research phase included a deep dive into the commuting patterns and needs of Rotterdam residents. Surveys and interviews revealed the limitations of existing public transport and the need for faster, more direct routes. We also examined freight and passenger traffic on the river and potential mooring locations, to optimise routes for efficient travel. These insights highlighted the need for a scalable and environmentally friendly solution that could reduce journey times and improve access to key areas across the river.

Translating insights into design criteria

Based on our research, we drew up the main criteria for the FERRY concept. The solution had to be modular to allow scalability and adaptability, with minimal impact on the river banks’ environment. We also prioritised sustainability, with electric propulsion powered by solar panels and local microfabrication for a low carbon footprint. The design provided for a commuting capacity of at least 10 passengers with bicycles, to meet common commuting needs. Moreover, the system would be AI-driven to respond in real time to peak travel times and high-demand locations.

Develop: Exploring prototypes and testing scenarios

In the concept phase, we outlined possible prototypes, focusing on modular structures and autonomous operation. Test scenarios explored how the FERRY could cope with different river conditions, docking requirements and passenger flows. The design also included the Vision Cockpit, which provided passengers with navigation information and updates to enhance the user experience. The system’s AI capabilities were mapped to ensure that the system could dynamically adapt to demand, so that the wait time at each berth would be a maximum of five minutes.

Visualising the impact of the concept

Although still a concept, the FERRY system is seen as a transformative solution for the Rotterdam transport landscape. The concept expects autonomous solar-powered shuttles to significantly reduce journey times, increase accessibility to the city and support Rotterdam’s sustainability goals. Modular docks could be easily relocated to meet changing demands and create a highly adaptable transport option. This vision aligns with MODYN’s commitment to creating innovative mobility solutions that are both sustainable and adaptable.

Expected results

If realised, the FERRY concept could revolutionise commuting in Rotterdam by making sustainable travel across the river Meuse more accessible. This system would likely increase bicycle use, reduce reliance on cars and support the city’s CO2 reduction efforts. With an adaptive AI system, FERRY could further optimise routes based on real-time data, increasing efficiency and user satisfaction over time.

Reflection and future considerations

The FERRY concept exemplifies the potential of modular and autonomous waterborne transport in urban environments. In the future, the concept could be extended to include freight transport options, reducing the need for trucks in city centres. As technology advances, particularly in the areas of AI and sustainable materials, the FERRY could become even more responsive and adaptable, offering new opportunities for urban mobility and connectivity. Future work could also explore how this concept could be applied to other cities with similar geographical challenges.