Norwegian shipping and logistic company Wallenius Wilhelmsen has declared options to build four additional next-generation Shaper Class pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels in China.
As informed, the 9,300 CEU methanol dual-fuel vessels can utilize alternative fuel sources, such as methanol, upon delivery.
They will also be ammonia-ready and able to be converted as soon as ammonia becomes available ‘in a safe and secure way’.
These next-generation vessels will play a key role in the introduction of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s net zero emissions end-to-end service by 2027, according to the company.
“Together with our customers we are committed to further shaping our industry and accelerating towards net zero. These new vessels are a vital part of that journey,” Xavier Leroi , EVP & COO Shipping Services, commented.
In August last year, Wallenius Wilhelmsen signed a letter of intent for the construction of four 9,350 CEU methanol-capable and ammonia-ready vessels and individual options for an additional eight car carriers. The PCTC order was confirmed in October 2023 when the shipping company signed a contract with China Merchants Jingling Shipyard.
This latest commitment brings the total number of Shaper Class vessels currently on order with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu) to eight. Wallenius Wilhelmsen also retains further options.
The first of the Shaper Class vessels already ordered are expected to be delivered in the second half of 2026. The four additional vessels under the declared options are scheduled for delivery between May and November 2027.
In related news, the Norwegian company inked a month ago two contracts worth over $1.2 billion with an unnamed global construction and mining equipment manufacturer and one of the largest automotive distributors in the Americas.
The company revealed that both contracts include ‘direct support for Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s decarbonization initiatives, such as the use biofuel, technical and operational improvements to the existing fleet, and the development of new technologies.’
The company operates around 125 vessels servicing 15 trade routes to six continents, a global inland distribution network, 66 processing centers, and eight marine terminals.