PIL Expands Fleet with Order for Five 13,000 TEU LNG Container Vessels

Pacific International Lines (PIL) is accelerating its fleet renewal program with an order for five new 13,000 TEU container vessels, each equipped with LNG (liquefied natural gas) dual-fuel engines.

These neo-Panamax vessels, which will be built by Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, a leading Chinese shipbuilder, are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026.

Designed with a strong emphasis on efficiency, safety and sustainability, the vessels will offer the flexibility to adapt to different voyages, weather conditions and load capacities. Their dual-fuel engines and auxiliary equipment will enable operation on both LNG and low-sulphur fuel oil.

“These latest orders are part of PIL’s fleet renewal strategy for larger and more eco-friendly vessel types. Together with another eight vessels we currently have under construction, we now have 13 new vessels that will contribute significantly towards our decarbonisation goal of net zero emissions by 2050. As part of our commitment to putting customers first, we are continually optimizing our fleet with newer and more advanced vessels to better serve customers in our key markets. For instance, the vessels will have a high refrigerated container capacity payload to support our services for the transport of fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat and pharmaceuticals,” said Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL. Incorporating advanced technology and energy-saving innovations, the vessels will feature optimized hull shapes, variable frequency drive (VFD) motors for larger pumps and ventilators, energy-efficient LED lighting and advanced hull paints. They will be fully compliant with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for newbuildings and the Carbon Intensity Index (CII).

In addition, the vessels will incorporate advanced digitalization, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, to automate tasks and improve operational efficiency. These advances will contribute to safer and more efficient operations, provide a modern working environment and improve crew well-being.

The digital capabilities of these vessels will further strengthen PIL’s Centre for Maritime Efficiency, optimizing vessel operations and routes, enhancing safety and security, and reducing energy consumption. PIL is also currently building four 14,000 TEU and four 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel containerships, with the first two 14,000 TEU vessels scheduled for delivery later this year. The order for these innovative vessels underscores PIL’s commitment to leveraging expertise and technology to deliver efficient and sustainable maritime solutions.

Source: Phaata.com (via Container-News)

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