We are going large: Wallenius Wilhelmsen upsizes four vessels to largest in the world
Wallenius Wilhelmsen will upsize four of the twelve shaper class vessels. Why does it matter?
Wallenius Wilhelmsen prepares for the future and upsizes four of the twelve Shaper Class vessels from 9,300 to 11,700 CEUs.
Once built, there will be no other PCTC vessel that is larger in the world.
“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,” Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services says.
With the increased vessel capacity, our customers will experience more efficient operations that lower their supply chain emissions. Increased efficiency will also result in lower transportation costs.
Why does it matter?
The increased vessel size has a direct link to cutting emissions, cutting cost and delivering on Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s net-zero ambitions.
To reach net-zero emissions it is essential to be as efficient as possible.
With a larger vessel, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is able to transport more cargo which increases efficiency and reduces the cost and emissions per car transported.
As becoming more efficient is a key element of futureproofing and cutting emissions, a larger vessel directly aids Wallenius Wilhelmsen in achieving the ambitious goal of creating a net-zero end-to-end service by 2027.
“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.”EVP & COO Shipping Services
In the end-to-end net-zero service that Wallenius Wilhelmsen will offer by 2027, the shaper class vessels will be the ocean element. The fully integrated service will include all stages from the vehicle factory all the way to the end customer.
How will we do it and when will it happen?
The upsized Shaper vessels will be six meters longer and two meters wider than originally planned and will have 14 decks instead of the original 12.
Like the other Shaper vessels, the upsized vessels will have a methanol-capable dual-fuel engine, improved ramp strength and significant high and heavy capacity.
As always, the focus on energy efficiency, safety and crew welfare will be comprehensive.
The first Shaper vessel will be delivered from the second half of 2026, and we expect the upsized vessels to be due for delivery from late 2027.
The vessels are currently on order with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu).