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Better by design

E-GES

​​​​​​​Electrical GES free-fall lifeboat -
safer, smarter, greener


VIKING Norsafe has developed the E-GES free-fall lifeboat in close co-operation with DNV-GL and NMA (Norwegian Maritime Authority).

The purpose of the project was to assess the feasibility of an electrically powered free-fall lifeboat concept with the goal of minimising the operation and maintenance costs associated with lifeboats. Norsafe’s GES 45 free-fall lifeboat, which is already built in compliance with DNVGL-ST-E406, was the basis of the study.

100% electric propulsion for improved user friendliness

All diesel related propulsion equipment was removed and replaced with an electrically driven system.

The study involved a full design and testing programme as DNVGL-ST-E406 and included CFD simulations, scale model and prototype testing.

It has been demonstrated that electrical propulsion is a realistic alternative for free-fall lifeboats.


Datasheet - Electric GES free-fall lifeboat (opens in PDF)

E-GES electrical free-fall lifeboat VIKING Norsafe 3D drawing electric drive-line

Fully electric drive-line



Electric motor E-GES electrical free-fall lifeboat VIKING Norsafe

Electric motor and inverter



VIKING Norsafe E-GES free-fall lifeboat fully adjustable seating

Focus on personnel comfort - e.g. fully adjustable seating

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​​​​​​​Choose E-GES for increased safety and reduced costs

Advantages of the E-GES free-fall lifeboat


  • Significant reduction in OPEX cost
  • ​​​​​​​No need for diesel fuel reducing problems of supply and contamination
  • The driveline can be remotely started and stopped, and performance recorded, without personnel entering the lifeboat
  • Redundancy is given by a battery management system (BMS) meaning that, in case of failure or damage, the lifeboat is still functional even with one battery - so there is full redundancy
  • Remote monitoring of equipment from bridge and onshore locations
  • Increased safety during sail away because of higher top speed

  • Reduced requirement for on-board checks and inspections

  • High level of personnel comfort when at sea due to climate controlled environment as well as reduced noise and vibration
  • 90% reduction in air bottle capacity, saving weight and maintenance
  • Electric installation has been designed as DNV-GL and NMA requirements
  • Environmentally friendly with no emissions or fluid spills


Building a new platform?

When making boat and davit choices for newbuildings, there are plenty of design and maintenance strategy decisions to make – as well as regulations to be aware of. And short-term savings in the first phase can quickly evaporate as operational realities take over.

VIKING offers unbeatable safety and convenience with a well-deserved reputation for solving the challenges our customers face. Choose the world’s best boats and davits – we’ll take care of the rest.

>> Read more


​​​​​​​Get more information about VIKING Norsafe E-GES

>> Find your local VIKING office

>> Send an email to VIKING-Norsafe@viking-life.com