Norwegian shipping and logistics company Wallenius Wilhelmsen has decided to enlarge four of the twelve methanol dual-fuel Shaper class vessels currently on order with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu).
As informed, the pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) will be increased in size from 9,300 to approximately 11,700 CEUs.
The vessels will be ‘the largest PCTCs ever to sail’ and will play an important role in reducing the cost of the company’s net-zero end-to-end ambition, according to Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
“Specifically designed for our needs and trading patterns, prepared for net-zero from day one, and purpose built with significant economies of scale, we believe the new upsized Shaper vessels are a class apart. Providing significant savings on fuel and emissions in comparison to the current fleet and with both unparalleled capacity and the highest ramp strength in the order book, these vessels are truly fit for the future,” Xavier Leroi , EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, commented.
To remind, Wallenius Wilhelmsen signed an agreement in October 2023 with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard for the construction of four methanol dual-fuel vessels. In February 2024, it declared options for four more units.
The vessels will be the ocean element of the integrated net-zero service Wallenius Wilhelmsen will offer customers from 2027. This end-to-end offering will include all stages of finished vehicles’ transport from the factory to the end consumer.
“This is very welcome as we now further improve our cargo capabilities, fuel efficiency and service offerings. These address the future needs expressed by our customers,” Pia Synnerman , EVP & CCO at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, said.
Specifically, the four upsized vessels share many of the integral design features of the Shaper class such as a dual fuel engine, methanol capable from delivery, improved ramp strength, significant high and heavy capacity and an extensive focus on energy efficiency, safety and crew welfare.
The first Shaper class vessels will start being delivered from the second half of 2026, with the new upsized versions due for delivery beginning late 2027, the company said.