PACIFIC International Lines has announced the order of five new container vessels, each equipped with liquified natural gas dual fuel engines.
The Singaporean shipping line announced that the neo-panamax sized vessels, each with a 13000 TEU capacity, are expected to be delivered progressively from end-2026.
Construction of the vessels has been awarded to Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, a Chinese shipbuilder.
PIL said the five vessels have been designed with a focus on efficiency, safety and sustainability, and will also have the flexibility to meet the demands of different voyages, weather conditions and load capacities.
The ships will be equipped with dual-fuel engines and auxiliaries to be able to run on both LNG as well as low sulphur fuel oil.
CEO of PIL Lars Kastrup said this latest order was part of the line’s fleet renewal strategy for larger and more eco-friendly vessel types.
“Together with another eight vessels we currently have under construction, we now have 13 new vessels that will contribute significantly towards our decarbonisation goal of net zero emissions by 2050” Mr Kastrup said.
“As part of our commitment to putting customers first, we are continually optimising our fleet with newer and more advanced vessels to better serve customers in our key markets.
“For instance, the vessels will have a high refrigerated container capacity payload to support our services for the transport of fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat and pharmaceuticals.”
The vessels will reportedly incorporate technological and energy-saving features including an optimised hull-form, variable-frequency drive motors for larger pumps and ventilation blowers, lower-energy LED lightings, as well as premium hull coatings.
Additionally, features of digitalisation such as Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things has been incorporated in the design and equipment for the automation of tasks.
PIL says these improvements will contribute to more efficient operations, provide a safe and modern working environment as well as enhance the welfare of our seafarers,
The shipping line says the vessel’s digital features will further boost the ability of PIL’s Centre for Maritime Efficiency to optimise vessel operations and routes, increase safety and security, and minimise energy usage.
News of the upcoming five newbuilds comes as PIL is currently building four 14000 TEU and four 8200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels. The first two of the 14000 TEU vessels are expected to be delivered later this year.
