The new agreement, which also includes an option for another two vessels, comes just over two months after the latest order for the construction of five more PCTCs.
The Grimaldi Group has commissioned Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Company Limited (SWS) and China Shipbuilding Trading Company Limited (CSTC), two subsidiaries of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC), to build five new PCTC (Pure Car & Truck Carrier) vessels, with the option for another two units, which would bring the total investment to over USD 630 million.
With a length of 200 meters, a width of 38 meters and loading capacity of 9,000 CEU (Car Equivalent Unit), the new buildings have been designed to transport electric and fossil fuel vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans, etc.) as well as other types of heavy rolling freight (up to 250 tons). They will be among the first ships equipped with a new type of electronic engine whose specific consumption is one of the lowest in its category. Thanks to their emission abatement systems, the new units will comply with the most stringent limits established at international level for CO2, NOx and SOx emissions.
Upon their delivery, expected between 2025 and 2026, the new buildings will enhance the Grimaldi Group’s services between Europe, North Africa, the Near and Far East.
