Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, marked a significant milestone today with the christening and launch ceremony of the FUGAKU MARU, a cutting-edge roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessel commissioned by FUJITRANS Corporation. The event, held at the Enoura Plant of MHI’s Shimonoseki Shipyard & Machinery Works in Yamaguchi Prefecture, sets the stage for the ship’s scheduled handover in April 2024, following rigorous outfitting and sea trials.
Replacing the original FUGAKU MARU, which has dutifully served since 1997 after construction at MHI’s Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works, the new vessel stands tall at 165 meters in length, 27.6 meters in breadth, boasting a gross tonnage of approximately 13,000. It can adeptly ferry up to 50 trailer chassis and 1,511 passenger cars.
Noteworthy enhancements in fuel efficiency have been achieved through innovative design elements. The inclusion of a vertical stem in the bow diminishes propulsion resistance, complemented by high-efficiency propellers and the application of low-friction paint. Additionally, the vessel boasts an onshore power receiving system in the engine room, allowing the onboard power generator to be shut down, paving the way for potential zero emissions during port stays.
Structural improvements have also allowed for a wider beam and the elimination of pillars on the trailer loading deck, granting more space for trailers and ultimately leading to heightened loading efficiency.
The unveiling of the FUGAKU MARU comes at a crucial juncture in the maritime industry’s evolution, as a shift towards marine transport gains momentum in a bid to curtail CO2 emissions from land-based transportation modes. This development aligns with efforts to address challenges such as long-distance truck driver shortages and adapt to evolving workstyles. Going forward, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, in collaboration with its esteemed partners, is poised to further this cause through the construction of ferries and RO/RO vessels that not only facilitate smooth navigation but also deliver exceptional energy and environmental performance.
