Wallenius Wilhelmsen adds four more methanol dual-fuel optional PCTCs in China

March 26, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

Norwegian shipping and logistic company Wallenius Wilhelmsen has decided to add four optional methanol dual-fuel optional pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) in China.

Last month, the company declared options for four methanol-fueled, ammonia-ready at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard Co.

On March 25, the shipowner officially signed the shipbuilding contracts for the recently declared options for four methanol-powered vessels.

In connection with the contract signing, Wallenius Wilhelmsen has opted for four additional options at the shipyard.

According to the firm, the new optional vessels have earlier delivery slots compared to the options already held, to provide further flexibility in delivery timing.

Consequently, Wallenius Wilhelmsen now has firm contracts for eight new vessels with delivery from mid-2026 onwards, and eight optional vessels.

The new declared 9,300 CEU methanol dual-fuel vessels can use alternative fuel sources, such as methanol, upon delivery. The ships will also be ammonia-ready and able to be converted as soon as ammonia becomes available ‘in a safe and secure way’.

Earlier on, German engine manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) was contracted to supply methanol dual-fuel marine engines for the ships. The order encompasses options for additional engines.

These next-generation vessels are expected to play a key role in the introduction of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s net-zero emissions end-to-end service by 2027.