Wallenius Wilhelmsen upsizes four Shaper Class vessels on order at Jiangsu
RoRo specialist Wallenius Wilhelmsen has upsized four of its twelve Shaper Class vessels currently on order with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu) from 9,300 to approximately 11,700 CEUs. These ships will be the biggest PCTCs to ever set sail, according to Wallenius Wilhelmsen and the company expects them to have a significant impact on lowering the company’s expenses as part of its goal to achieve net-zero emissions.
“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. 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,” says Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
The ships will form the marine component of the comprehensive net-zero solution that Wallenius Wilhelmsen intends to provide to its clients starting in 2027. This complete package will encompass every phase of transporting finished vehicles from the manufacturing plant to the final customer. The corporation aims to leverage its extensive ground-based logistics and transportation infrastructure to bring this vision to fruition.
“This is very welcome as we now further improve our cargo capabilities, fuel efficiency and service offerings. These address the future needs expressed by our customers,” says Pia Synnerman, EVP & CCO at Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
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 from the second half of 2026, with the new upsized versions due for delivery beginning late 2027.
