Norway’s Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA (WWASA) has taken delivery of the second of four Post-Panamax car carriers expected to join the group’s fleet in 2015 – the Thalatta.
Built at the Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in Mokpo, South Korea, the Thalatta is 36.5 m wide, 199.99 m long and has five liftable decks. Designed for cargo of various sizes, the new vessel can transport up to 8,000 car equivalent units.
The vessel commenced service for Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics this week and flies the Maltese flag. Wilhelmsen Ship Management is responsible for technical management and crewing.
”With a streamlined bow, new Promas rudder and an engine configured to allow the vessel to operate more efficiently in a wider range of speeds and drafts, the Post-Panamax design contributes to reduced fuel consumption and less emissions per transported unit,” said Jan Eyvin Wang, president and CEO of WWASA.
The vessel is also fitted with an Exhaust Gas Cleaning System reducing sulphur emissions to below 0.1% in compliance with ECA regulations and removing 70% of particulate matter significantly reducing NOx emissions.
”Optimising our fleet for the new Panama Canal and future customer needs are key to position the company for growth,” said Wang.
”Short term, transportation of cars and ro-ro cargo is expected to be modest. However, the long-term macro picture supports a positive underlying growth potential. By investing in new, cost-efficient tonnage we position ourselves for future growth.”
The two remaining Post-Panamax vessels are on order at the Korean yard Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries and will be delivered in the first half of 2016.