Wallenius Wilhelmsen orders 4+8 methanol-fuelled PCTCs

The deliveries of the 9,350 ceu vessel series will begin from mid-2026 onwards. The new Shaper-class of vessels are likely to be among the largest vessels of their type when they enter service, The Motorship notes, and will give Wallenius Wilhelmsen the choice of introducing ammonia-fuelled engines into the later deliveries in the series. 

“We believe that methanol is the fastest way to net-zero emission, and the ordered vessels can upon delivery use alternative fuel sources such as methanol. The vessels will also be ammonia-ready and can be converted as soon as green ammonia becomes available in a safe and secure way,” says Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services Wallenius Wilhelmsen. 

“There is an urgent need for our industry to transform over the next couple of years. 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,” says Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO and President Wallenius Wilhelmsen.

The press release noted that the order forms part of the company’s strategy to provide a net-zero emission service to customers from 2027. 

“To secure our number one position, we will continue to deliver great services with a competitive fleet, offering sustainable supply chain services both on land and at sea. We are already partnering with our customers on reducing emissions through biofuel. With the new vessels, we can accelerate our operations towards net-zero. This requires new and more expensive fuels and we are committed to securing this together with our customers as soon as it can be made available,” says Leroi.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen notes that the newbuilding order forms part of its strategy to maintain a fleet of 125-135 vessels. The order forms part of its ongoing fleet renewal programme.