SWEDEN's Wallenius Wilhelmsen has announced that four of the 12 Shaper Class vessels currently on order with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu) will be increased in size from 9,300 to 11,700 car equivalent units (CEU), reports London's Port Technology International.

According to the company, the vessels will be the largest pure car, truck carrier (PCTC) ships ever to sail, forming the ocean component of Wallenius Wilhelmsen's integrated net-zero service, set to be available to customers starting in 2027.

This comprehensive offering will encompass all stages of transporting finished vehicles, from the factory to the end consumer. To implement this service, the company intends to leverage its existing land-based logistics and transport network.

The four upsized vessels share many of the integral design features of the Shaper Class such as a dual fuel engine, methanol capable from delivery, improved ramp strength, significant high and heavy capacity and an extensive focus on energy efficiency, safety and crew welfare.

The first Shaper Class vessels will start being delivered in the second half of 2026, with the new upsized versions due for delivery beginning in late 2027.

"Specifically designed for our needs and trading patterns, prepared for net-zero from day one, and purpose built with significant economies of scale, we believe the new upsized Shaper vessels are a class apart," said Wallenius Wilhelmsen vice president and chief operations officer Xavier Leroi.

"Providing significant savings on fuel and emissions in comparison to the current fleet and with both unparalleled capacity and the highest ramp strength in the order book, these vessels are truly fit for the future."

Earlier this April, the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) and Wallenius Wilhelmsen signed a 20-year terminal agreement to consolidate the company's port and logistics activities at the Port of Brunswick.


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