Wallenius Wilhelmsen, a leading global shipping and logistics company, is set to upsize four of its twelve Shaper Class vessels, increasing their capacity from 9,300 to 11,700 CEUs (Car Equivalent Units), making them the largest Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessels in the world once completed. The company has stated that the upsizing is part of its strategy to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and meet its net-zero emissions targets.
The Shaper Class vessels, specifically designed to meet Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s operational needs and trading patterns, will feature advanced technologies and design innovations aimed at reducing emissions and fuel consumption. Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, highlighted the significance of these vessels, stating “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.”
With the increased capacity, Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s customers will benefit from more efficient operations that lower supply chain emissions. The ability to transport more cargo per voyage reduces the cost and emissions per vehicle, aligning with the company’s goal of offering a fully net-zero end-to-end service by 2027.
Why Does This Matter?
The upsizing of these vessels is a critical step in Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s journey toward achieving net-zero emissions. By increasing the vessel size, the company enhances its ability to transport more cargo, which leads to greater efficiency and reduced costs and emissions per car transported. As the shipping industry seeks to decarbonize, larger vessels provide an avenue for significant fuel and emissions savings, a key component of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s sustainability strategy.
“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,” Xavier Leroi added.
These upsized Shaper vessels will form the ocean transport element of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s fully integrated net-zero service, covering every step of the supply chain from the vehicle factory to the end customer. The end-to-end service is planned to be operational by 2027.
Vessel Features and Timeline
The upsized vessels will be six meters longer and two meters wider than originally planned, featuring 14 decks instead of the original 12. In addition to the size increase, the vessels will be equipped with a methanol dual-fuel engine, enhanced ramp strength, and expanded high and heavy cargo capacity. The company remains committed to energy efficiency, safety, and crew welfare in the design of these vessels.
The first Shaper vessel is scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2026, with the upsized versions expected to be delivered from late 2027. All vessels are being constructed at Jinling Shipyard in Jiangsu, China.
This latest development solidifies Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s position as a leader in sustainable shipping and demonstrates its commitment to futureproofing its fleet in alignment with the industry’s decarbonization goals.
About Wallenius Wilhemsen
The Wallenius Wilhelmsen group is a market leader in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping and vehicle logistics, overseeing the distribution of cars, trucks, rolling equipment, and breakbulk to customers worldwide.
The company operates approximately 130 vessels servicing 15 trade routes across six continents, alongside a global inland distribution network, 120 processing centers, and eight marine terminals. Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, the Wallenius Wilhelmsen group employs 8,200 individuals in 29 countries globally. The company’s mission is to construct sustainable supply chains, envisioning innovative and eco-friendly solutions for the evolving landscape of mobility and transportation, both on land and at sea.
To ensure the safe and efficient movement of cargo, we rely on our dedicated team of 8,200 individuals, working as truck drivers, port staff, personnel at 121 processing centers, and in offices spanning 29 countries. Our fleet of over 130 vessels traverses every ocean, boasting some of the lowest emission levels in the roll-on/roll-off segment. Furthermore, we employ cutting-edge systems and software, easily accessible on handheld devices, to facilitate the seamless flow of cargo information in real-time.
Source Wallenius Wilhemsen