French shipping giant CMA CGM has marked a significant milestone with the delivery of the final vessel in a series of ten state-of-the-art LNG-powered containerships. The CMA CGM Escurial, constructed by HD Hyundai Mipo in Ulsan, South Korea, departed the shipyard on December 24, 2024, and officially joined the fleet after arriving in Shanghai on December 28.
This latest addition to CMA CGM’s lineup is part of a $627 million investment initiated in November 2021, designed to bolster the company’s fleet with eco-friendly and efficient vessels. The 2,000-TEU ships, equipped with cutting-edge LNG propulsion systems, represent a crucial step toward the group’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
At the heart of this innovation is a 12-megawatt MAN dual-fuel engine capable of running on LNG, biogas, or even e-methane in the future, aligning with global efforts to decarbonize the shipping industry. These engines not only cut emissions but also improve fuel efficiency, reducing consumption by 15% per trip compared to traditional designs.
The series’ design showcases collaboration with prominent industry players, including French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, Danish engineering firm Odense Marine Technique (OMT), and French LNG specialist GTT. The vessels are optimized for hydrodynamic and aerodynamic performance, featuring an almost inverted straight bow with an integrated bulb to enhance energy efficiency.
CMA CGM Escurial joins the CNC CV8 service, connecting Shanghai to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This route highlights the vessel’s versatility and supports the company’s expanding operations in Asia. Earlier deliveries in the series, such as the CMA CGM Mermaid and CMA CGM Tivoli, have already demonstrated the success of these ships in optimizing operational efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint.
The project underscores CMA CGM’s leadership in sustainable shipping. Beyond these LNG-powered feeders, the company has invested $18 billion in a fleet transformation initiative that includes 131 dual-fuel vessels slated for operation by 2028. With over 623 ships and a total capacity of three million TEUs, CMA CGM remains a formidable player in the maritime industry.
