Nissan Launches Green Ro-Ro Vessel

Nissan Motor Co. launched the Nichioh Maru, an energy efficient coastal ro-ro vessel that will transport completed vehicles and parts on one of Japan's main maritime shipping routes.

The 11,400-deadweight-ton Nichioh Maru has solar power panels and is propelled by an electronically controlled diesel engine. It employs LED lighting in the ship's hold and living quarters, and its hull is painted with low friction coating. Built by Shin Kurushima Dockyard Co. in Japan, the vessel has a length of 169.95 meters and a breadth of 26 meters. It can carry 880 vehicles.

Nitto Kaiun Corporation will operate the Nichioh Maru on the main maritime route among the Kanto (Oppama), Kinki (Kobe) and Kyushu (Kanda) regions. The company will increase weekly sailings from four to six with the addition of the new vessel.

Photo shows the newbuild Nichioh Maru. Courtesy of Nissan Motor Co.