Pacific International Lines (PIL) is stepping up its fleet renewal programme and has ordered five new container vessels with a 13,000 TEU capacity and dual-fuel liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines. The neo-Panamax-sized vessels are expected to be delivered progressively from end-2026. Construction of the vessels has been awarded to Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, a leading Chinese shipbuilder.
Designed to focus on efficiency, safety, and sustainability, the modern vessels will also be flexible enough to meet the demands of different voyages, weather conditions, and load capacities. They will be equipped with dual-fuel engines and auxiliaries that can run on LNG and Low-Sulphur Fuel Oil.
Mr Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL said,
“These latest orders are part of PIL’s fleet renewal strategy for larger, more eco-friendly vessel types. Together with another eight vessels we currently have under construction, we have 13 new vessels that will contribute significantly towards our decarbonization goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
“As part of our commitment to putting customers first, we are continually optimising our fleet with newer and more advanced vessels to serve customers better in our key markets. For instance, the vessels will have a high refrigerated container capacity payload to support our services for the transport of fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, and pharmaceuticals.”
The vessels will incorporate the latest technological and energy-saving features, including an optimized hull form, variable-frequency drive (VFD) motors for larger pumps and ventilation blowers, lower-energy LED lightings, and premium hull coatings. When completed, the vessels will be fully compliant with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new buildings and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII).
In addition, increased digitalisation, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), has been incorporated into the design and equipment for task automation. All of these improvements will contribute to more efficient operations, provide a safe and modern working environment, and enhance the welfare of our seafarers.
The vessels’ digital features will further boost the ability of PIL’s Centre for Maritime Efficiency to optimise vessel operations and routes, increase safety and security, as well as minimise energy usage.
PIL is currently building four 14,000 TEU and four 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels. The first two of the 14,000 TEU vessels are expected to be delivered later this year. PIL’s order of modern innovative vessels demonstrates its approach of leveraging its expertise and technology to provide efficient and sustainable solutions.
Source: CSN Shipping News
