The Swedish shipping company Ektank has opted for a new autopilot from Anschütz for the modernization of an oil tanker.

The NautoPilot 5300 NX is a state-of-the-art autopilot that offers the most comprehensive range of fuel-saving features in addition to high-precision control.

The new autopilot was installed on board their vessel M/T Ekfjord. Ekfjord is a very well-equipped 17,000 DWT double- skin tanker with DNV NAUT-OC notation that operates in global trade.

“We are delighted that Ektank has decided in favor of our autopilot for the modernization of its high-quality ships,” said Jörn Fischbach, sales manager for Scandinavia at Anschütz.

With its outstanding steering accuracy, the NautoPilot 5300 NX fulfills Ektank’s high safety and quality standards. Even at low speeds, the autopilot has proven its precise performance, which is essential for navigation in narrow and sensitive sea areas as well as between islands and archipelagos.

The new autopilot also ensures more efficient ship operation. The combination of various functions to increase efficiency in steering performance can save up to 2.5% of fuel, according to previous findings, which in turn leads to lower emissions.

Important functions include an ECO mode, which filters out regular ship movements due to weather or sea conditions and thus reduces rudder movements. Additionally, the Course Control mode guides the ship over the shortest distance with low rudder angles. On the intuitive heading and rudder plot, navigators can see how efficiently the autopilot is steering at that moment and can optimize the parameter settings at the touch of a finger at any time.

NautoPilot 5300 NX autopilot is appropriate for all ship types. It complies with current standards, including Ethernet communication standards according to IEC 61162-450, cyber security requirements according to IACS UR E27, and bridge alert management communication according to IEC 62923-1 and -2.