Maersk inks order with Hyundai Mipo for first DF methanol-fuelled feeder

The newbuilding project will feature a methanol propulsion system that will be developed by Hyundai Mipo and Maersk in conjunction with MAN Energy Solutions and HHI-EMD for the main engine. The order is the first of its kind for a container feeder.

The vessel will also feature dual-fuel HiMSEN auxiliary engines, which will also be capable of operating on methanol or VLSFO, a Maersk representative confirmed.

The 172-metre 2,100 teu container feeder is expected to be delivered in mid-2023. It will subsequently be operated by Sealand Europe, a Maersk subsidiary, on a Baltic Sea route between Northern Europe and the Gulf of Bothnia.

At the time of the February announcement, Maersk confirmed its intention that the vessel would operate on carbon-neutral methanol. With more than two years before the vessel enters service, the details of the bunkering arrangement are to be confirmed. It is likely that the fuel will be provided by a supplier from the Baltic region, The Motorship understands.

”Developing this vessel is a significant challenge, but we have already come a long way in our work with the yard and the makers to reach this milestone. While we are pioneering these solutions for our industry, we are working with well-proven technologies and the cost potential from further scaling is becoming very clear to us,” says Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head of Fleet Technology, A.P. Moller – Maersk.

The classification society will be American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).