Pacific International Lines (PIL), a global leading container line, has taken delivery of its third 14,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessel, Kota Ebony, marking another milestone in its fleet renewal program. The vessel was officially named at a ceremony held at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai, with Mrs. Giselle Kastrup, wife of PIL’s CEO Lars Kastrup, serving as the sponsor.
Expanding LNG Dual-Fuel Vessels Fleet
Kota Ebony is the third of four 14,000 TEU vessels designed and built by Jiangnan Shipyard, one of China’s leading shipbuilders. These vessels are the largest in PIL’s fleet and the first to run on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable shipping.
Lars Kastrup CEO of Pacific International Lines expressed enthusiasm about the latest addition, stating: “We are thrilled to welcome Kota Ebony, our third 14K vessel to our fleet. These efficient dual-fuel vessels enable us to further bolster our services and support the growing trade between China and Latin America.” The first two vessels in the series, Kota Eagle and Kota Emerald, entered service in October and December 2024, respectively, and are already operating successfully on PIL’s Latin America service network.
Commitment to Sustainability and Fleet Expansion
PIL is expecting its fourth and final 14,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessel in the coming months. Additionally, the company has ordered 14 more dual-fuel, biomethane-capable vessels, scheduled for delivery progressively throughout 2025 and the subsequent years. This expansion reflects PIL’s strategy to modernize its fleet and reduce its environmental impact, aligning with its goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The 14,000 TEU vessels feature an optimized hull form, enhanced reefer capacity for perishable goods, and several efficiency-enhancing technologies. These include high-performance anti-fouling coatings to reduce fuel consumption, exhaust gas recirculation systems to minimize methane slip from the main engine, and advanced data connectivity for improved operational efficiency and safety.
PIL’s Growing Orderbook
Since 2022, PIL has significantly expanded its newbuild program, with a total of 18 vessels on order. Beyond the four 14,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel ships, the company has placed orders for four 8,000 TEU, five 13,000 TEU, and five 9,000 TEU vessels, further strengthening its position in the global container shipping market.
With the addition of Kota Ebony and the upcoming fleet expansions, PIL continues to enhance its service offerings while demonstrating its commitment to sustainable shipping practices in the global trade sector.
About Pacific International Lines (PIL)
Pacific International Lines (PIL) ranks among the top 12 container shipping lines globally. Founded in Singapore in 1967, PIL stands as the largest home-grown carrier in Southeast Asia. PIL operates in over 500 locations worldwide, focusing on regions such as Asia, China, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Oceania, and the Pacific Islands. With a fleet of approximately 100 container vessels, PIL offers comprehensive shipping services and solutions across more than 90 countries.
The company specializes in various cargo types, including dry, refrigerated, breakbulk, and special cargo. Leveraging its network of owned agencies and intermodal services, PIL delivers end-to-end transportation solutions that create value for its customers. At PIL, a people-centric approach prioritizes customer needs, utilizing expertise and technology to provide efficient and sustainable shipping solutions. The company is dedicated to sustainability and aims to positively impact the communities it serves, guided by a vision focused on the future.
Source PIL Singapore