Wilson’s first 3,800 dwt diesel-electric ship launched in India

Norwegian short-sea player Wilson ASA has launched the first of six 3,800 dwt general cargo ships with diesel-electric propulsion at Udupi Cochin Shipyard in India.

The launching ceremony for ECO I, the first vessel in Wilson’s ECO series, was officially held on December 16.

As explained, the vessel is built according to the CIP3800 design developed by the Dutch company Conoship International, focusing on energy efficiency, reduction of fuel consumption, and sustainability in line with Wilson ASA’s commitment to greener shipping solutions. 

In addition to diesel-electric propulsion, the CIP3800 design also provides the possibility of changing the type of fuel in the future, according to Conoship.

The newbuild is set to become fully operational by the second quarter of 2025.

Wilson ECO I is the first of six vessels from Wilson’s ECO series ordered in June 2023. At the time, the images of the vessel design showed that the ships would also be fitted with wind-propulsion technology, including EconoWind’s VentoFoil systems, a wing-shaped element, integrated with smart suction, which can create high propelling force and cut fuel consumption.

The shipbuilding deal included options for eight more diesel-electric cargo vessels which was executed in the summer of 2024.

Eight 6,300 dwt future-proof vessels will also be built with a focus on environmental benefits, flexibility, and efficiency, with delivery expected to be completed by 2028.