Oslo, 25 September 2024 – In a groundbreaking move, Wallenius Wilhelmsen has announced that it will be upsizing four of its twelve Shaper Class vessels, currently under construction at Jinling Shipyard in Jiangsu, from their original capacity of 9,300 CEUs to an impressive 11,700 CEUs. This adjustment means these will soon become the largest Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) to ever set sail, marking a significant leap forward for the shipping industry in terms of capacity and efficiency.
This decision underscores Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s ambitions to revolutionize maritime shipping, with these upsized vessels playing a pivotal role in advancing the company’s net-zero, end-to-end service goals. As stated by Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, “The new upsized Shaper vessels are a class apart, providing significant savings on fuel and emissions compared to the current fleet. With unparalleled capacity and the highest ramp strength in the order book, these vessels are truly fit for the future.” It’s clear that these vessels are not just about scale but also about being prepared for the evolving demands of eco-friendly, sustainable shipping practices.
The new Shaper Class vessels aren’t just larger; they’re meticulously designed to fit the company’s trading patterns and long-term sustainability goals. From the outset, these ships will be equipped to operate with net-zero emissions, aligning perfectly with Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s commitment to environmental responsibility. By 2027, these vessels will form the backbone of the company’s integrated net-zero service offering, delivering a seamless and sustainable shipping solution for customers worldwide, from factory floors to end consumers.
The upsizing of these vessels is a strategic move to cater to evolving customer needs, especially as the demand for eco-friendly shipping continues to rise. According to Pia Synnerman, EVP & CCO at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, “This is very welcome as we now further improve our cargo capabilities, fuel efficiency, and service offerings. These address the future needs expressed by our customers.” By making this investment, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is clearly positioning itself as a leader in providing advanced shipping solutions that offer both increased capacity and reduced emissions.
The design enhancements of the upsized Shaper Class vessels include dual-fuel engines capable of running on methanol from day one, enhanced ramp strength, and a focus on energy efficiency and safety, reflecting the company’s dedication to sustainability and operational excellence. This transition to larger, more efficient vessels aligns with the maritime industry’s broader push towards reducing carbon footprints while maintaining high service levels.
The first deliveries of the Shaper Class vessels are expected in the latter half of 2026, with the upsized versions scheduled to join the fleet by late 2027. This timeline indicates Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s commitment to swiftly integrating these advanced, eco-friendly vessels into its operations, reinforcing its position as a market leader in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping and vehicle logistics.
With a fleet of around 125 vessels operating across 15 trade routes on six continents, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is no stranger to innovation and expansion. This latest move to introduce the world’s largest PCTCs not only strengthens its market presence but also sets a new industry benchmark in terms of capacity, sustainability, and service.
In an era where reducing carbon emissions is more than a regulatory requirement – it’s a shared global responsibility – Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s upsizing initiative signifies a step in the right direction. By investing in technology and infrastructure that meets future demands, the company is preparing itself and the broader shipping industry for a more sustainable and efficient future.
