Norway-based shipping firm United European Car Carriers is pushing ahead with its newbuilding program consisting of three LNG-powered PCTCs.
China State Shipbuidling Corporation’s Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai held a steel cutting ceremony for the third pure car and truck carrier on July 20.
Besides LNG propulsion, the hybrid vessel will also feature battery power to improve operational efficiency and further reduce emissions.
UECC’s first hybrid LNG-powered newbuilding for short sea trade will be delivered during the second half of 2021.
UECC expects the two other vessels to join its fleet in early 2022 and towards the middle of 2022, respectively.
CEO Glenn Edvardsen previously said the battery-hybrid solution would take the firm beyond the IMO target of 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030.
Furthermore, the new vessels will enlarge the UECC dual-fuel LNG fleet to five ships in total.
UECC is a joint venture consisting of NYK and Wallenius Lines.
