UECC Orders Multifuel Battery Hybrid PCTCs

United European Car Carriers (UECC) has embarked on a “major” eco-friendly fleet expansion after ordering up to four multifuel, battery hybrid pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs).

A shipbuilding contract inked with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard Nanjing is for two firm vessels – slated for delivery in 2028 – with options for two more units. The four vessels would bring the number of eco-friendly newbuilds in the UECC fleet to nine after five similar deliveries in the last decade.

According to UECC, the newbuilds will feature advanced propulsion technologies to optimize energy efficiency, an aerodynamic hull design to reduce fuel consumption, solar panels installed on the top deck and shore power capability.

The fleet’s capacity of 4,500 car equivalent units (CEUs) will be spread out over 10 decks – two of which will be raiseable – and feature a quarter stern ramp capacity of 160 tons. The 190-meter-long vessels will be used to transport vehicles, high and heavy and other rolling cargoes in UECC’s European shortsea shipping liner network.

“We are delighted to have finalized this agreement to begin a successful partnership with Jinling, which a premium yard. We believe this contract will be a solid foundation for a strong and mutually beneficial relationship,” said Glenn Edvardsen, CEO of UECC, following an online signing ceremony for the new vessels.

“Futureproofing of newbuilds is a cornerstone of our sustainability strategy,” he added. “These PCTCs are therefore designed with advanced technologies to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, while being adaptable to accommodate future innovations and regulatory changes.

“This ensures that our operations can be continually optimized as new fuels and technologies are matured to further enhance the environmental efficiency of the UECC fleet, in line with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements and the needs of our clients.”

Oslo-headquartered UECC’s existing multifuel liquified natural gas (LNG) battery hybrid vessels – Auto Advance, Auto Achieve and Auto Aspire – currently exceed the IMO’s target for a minimum 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030. According to Edvardsen, UECC’s latest newbuild investments highlight the company’s commitment to leading industry decarbonization as it works toward completely eliminating fossil fuel use by 2040.

“There is still a long way to go to reach net zero. These newbuilds will further strengthen one of the most environment-friendly fleets in the industry and enable us to realize our sustainability ambitions,” the CEO said.


READ MORE: Decarbonization: "Don't Get Hung Up!"

UECC is an exhibitor at Breakbulk Europe.