While the search continues for the fuel of the future among shippers and shipowners, Sallaum Lines have opted to stick with liquefied natural gas (LNG). The company’s order of six LNG-fuelled pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) at the China Merchants (JINLING) Shipyard highlights Sallaum Lines’ commitment to sustainable maritime operations.

The order, officially placed on June 15, is a mix of four firm orders and two optional vessels. Overall, this boosts the number of Sallaum Lines’ vessels on order to eight. The first two vessels have been ordered at the Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding, and are the company’s very first newbuildings.

Efficiency and reduced environmental impact

Each vessel boasts impressive dimensions, featuring a 7,400 Car Equivalent Unit (CEU) Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) design. Measuring 199.9 metres in length, 37.70 metres in width, and a draught of 10.20 metres, the vessels incorporate a dual-fuel LNG design developed by Deltamarin. With 13 vehicle decks, the robust design ensures effective cargo handling and maximises operational efficiency.

But beyond these robust features, the most striking aspect of these new vessels is their environmental features. Vessels hold a Tier 3 classification and come with the cutting-edge “Clean” notation. These ships can utilise alternative marine shore power, thus reducing their carbon footprint while docked.

These PCTC vessels incorporate forward-thinking, eco-friendly design elements that drastically reduce the environmental impact. They promise an impressive reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 25 per cent, contributing to the company’s global commitment to combat climate change.

Moreover, these newbuildingss trap 86 times more heat in the atmosphere than an equivalent amount of CO2 over a 20-year period, Sallaum Lines say in their statement.. The vessels will have the potential to decrease Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) by more than 96 per cent, Sulfur Oxides (SOx) by over 99 per cent, and Particulate Matter (PM) by more than 95 per cent. Additionally, they promise a remarkable reduction in greenhouse gases by 63 per cent.

Deliveries to start in 2026

The delivery of the first of these vessels is scheduled to commence from March 2026. “This order underscores our continued commitment to modernising our fleet and fostering sustainable shipping practices,” Sallaum Lines said.

Furthermore, the company is confident that these new vessels will play a pivotal role in driving its growth while minimising environmental impact.