Wallenius Wilhelmsen has signed a letter of intent with Jinling Shipyard for four next-generation vessels capable of operating on alternative fuel sources, including methanol. The company also has the option for eight additional vessels of the same type if required.
Each of the 9,350 CEU ‘Shaper Class’ methanol dual-fuel pure car and truck carriers (PCTC) will be ammonia ready and able to be converted to use the sustainable fuel once it becomes widely available. It is anticipated that the first vessels will be delivered in the second half of 2026.
“There is an urgent need for our industry to transform over the next couple of years,” said Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO. “As a company, we are determined to shape this industry and lead the way to capitalize effectively on changing circumstances, as we grow with customers and partners sharing our journey.”
“The process of developing our new design started over 1.5 years ago and the team have been working in close collaboration with the designer (Deltamarin) and internal and external stakeholders during this period, to ensure the vessel design meets safety requirements and is well suited for our future short-term and long-term operational needs,” said Lars Ekren, senior manager, newbuildings and conversions. “Energy efficiency and reducing GHG emissions is a top priority, and a lot of effort has been put into ensuring the new vessels will significantly contribute to meeting our emissions reduction targets.”
To achieve its target of reaching net zero emissions, Wallenius Wilhelmsen states it will secure new-builds and biofuels, in addition to maintaining its fleet of between 125 and 135 vessels.
“We are already partnering with our customers on reducing emissions through biofuel and with the new vessels we can accelerate this towards net zero,” added Xavier Leroi, EVP and COO of shipping services. “This requires new and more expensive fuels but both we and our customers are committed to secure this as soon as it can be made available.”
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