A historic tall ship cruise on the Oslofjord set the stage for a landmark celebration as over 160 guests joined United European Car Carriers (UECC) to mark its 35th anniversary — and to spotlight its ambitious trajectory toward sustainable shortsea shipping.
On June 11, 2025, the 1937-built sailing ship Christian Radich played host to an evening cruise that gathered stakeholders from across Europe. Representatives from NYK, Wallenius Lines, customers, former employees, and current staff assembled to honour UECC’s journey from a niche RoRo operator into one of the most forward-thinking carriers in the European shortsea sector.
Business Winds at UECC’s Back
While the sea breeze carried nostalgic sea shanties from the Norwegian Seaman’s Choir, it was UECC’s forward motion that drew the most attention. CEO Glenn Edvardsen took the occasion to reflect on UECC’s beginnings in 1990, formed with the goal of offering reliable shortsea transport for the European auto industry.
“Since then, the road has been anything but straight, but it’s been ours. And it’s been extraordinary,” Edvardsen said, addressing the guests.
Today, UECC operates a 16-vessel fleet of Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) and is expanding further. The company has built a strong pan-European service network and has grown to handle all types of rolling cargo, including high and heavy equipment and breakbulk on mafi trailers.
UECC’s strength, according to Edvardsen, lies in its ability to adapt. “We have proven that decarbonising shipping is not just possible – it’s essential,” he said. “We’ve done it without compromising on reliability, performance, or customer service.”
Fleet Expansion Anchored in Sustainability
The Oslo-based operator has taken a proactive approach to shipping’s environmental challenges. Its investment in dual- and multi-fuel LNG vessels – including three already in operation with battery hybrid technology and two more on order – marks a serious commitment to low-emission transport.
Edvardsen noted that the newbuild sister ships, scheduled for delivery in 2028, will enhance operational flexibility while further improving environmental performance. These future vessels will incorporate advanced technical solutions to stay ahead of regulatory changes and industry expectations.
UECC is also integrating shore power systems and trialling alternative fuels like biofuels and liquefied biomethane, all aimed at shrinking the carbon footprint of its operations.
“Sustainability is our cornerstone,” Edvardsen declared. “It’s at the heart of every decision we make.”
Human Element at the Helm
While technology and fleet upgrades are essential, Edvardsen credited UECC’s people — past and present — for carrying the company through geopolitical shifts, pandemic disruptions, and the demands of digitalisation.
He underscored the importance of the company’s values: unity, energy, challenging convention, and commitment. “The next chapter of UECC is already underway,” he added. “The world is changing fast – and so are we. We will continue to innovate, to decarbonise, and to lead.”
As the Christian Radich cruised past the Oslo coastline, the message was clear: UECC is steering steadily toward a net-zero future, propelled by customer demand, fleet innovation, and a deep-rooted sense of purpose.
