Wallenius Wilhelmsen orders four dual-fuel vessels
Wallenius Wilhelmsen has signed a letter of intent for four firm, and eight optional, next generation vessels which can run on ammonia or methanol.
The first of the four 9,350CEU methanol-capable and ammonia-ready vessels, designated as ‘Shaper Class’, will be delivered from the second half of 2026 from Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu).
All vessels are designed to support Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s trading pattern and have a high degree of flexibility, allowing a variety of cargo compositions.
The ability to install ammonia propulsion provides future optionality to choose future green fuel types in line with Net Zero ambitions.
Lars Ekren, Senior Manager – Newbuildings and Conversions, said the process of developing its new design started over 1.5 year ago and the Newbuidlings team has been working in close collaboration with the designer (Delta Marin) and internal & external stakeholders during this period, to ensure the vessel design meets of safety requirements and is well suitable for our future short term & long-term operational needs.
Lars Ekren said:
“Energy efficiency & reducing GHG emissions is a top priority, and a lot of effort has put into ensuring the new vessels will significantly contribute to meeting our emission reduction targets.”
Wallenius Wilhelmsen signed a biofuels contract with ExxonMobil in June, in which the energy giant will supply fuel containing 30% biofuels and 70% conventional fuels.
In Q2, the shipping company – which opened the Orcelle Terminal in Zeebrugge in May – reported $477m EBITDA and $396m operational cash flow.
