Image: Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Wallenius Wilhelmsen ASA, a prominent figure in the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping and vehicle logistics sector, has taken a bold step towards combatting climate change. The company has recently inked a letter of intent for the construction of four cutting-edge vessels, with an additional eight optional vessels, all designed to embrace the company’s ambitious net-zero emission agenda.
The Shaper Class: Leading the Way
The four primary vessels, set to join the maritime fleet from mid-2026, boast an impressive capacity of 9,350 CEUs (Car Equivalent Units) and are equipped to handle methanol-based fuels while remaining ready for ammonia propulsion. Crafted in collaboration with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu), these vessels will be a testament to Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s commitment to spearheading sustainable shipping solutions.
Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, emphasizes the significance of this stride, stating, “We are securing our position as our customers’ first choice in shipping and delivering on our strategy to provide a net-zero emission free end-to-end service by 2027.”
Methanol: A Swift Route to Emission Reduction
Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO and President of Wallenius Wilhelmsen, echoes this sentiment, underlining the urgent need for industry transformation. “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.”
The company’s preference for methanol as a transitional fuel is noteworthy. Leroi elaborates, “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.”
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s dedication to environmental stewardship aligns with its broader vision of maintaining a fleet of 125-135 vessels, aptly titled the “The Shaper Class.” By integrating new, advanced vessels into its operations, the company aims to propel its journey towards net-zero emissions.
Leroi affirms, “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.” He further emphasizes the company’s collaboration with customers on emission reduction, highlighting the need for new and more expensive fuels, and expresses a joint commitment to their development.
About Wallenius Wilhelmsen
The Wallenius Wilhelmsen group boasts a vast network of 125 vessels navigating 15 trade routes across six continents. As a leader in RoRo shipping and vehicle logistics, the company has positioned itself as a driving force in the pursuit of sustainable maritime solutions. With a global footprint encompassing 29 countries, Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s dedication to innovation is mirrored in its commitment to shaping a greener future for the industry.
