Ocean Network Express has signed a Letter of Intent with Shoei Kisen Kaisha for the 15-year long-term charter of six new Ultra Large Container Ships (ULCS) with capacity greater than 24 000 TEUs each, the world's largest class ever.
The line is expected to take delivery in 2023/2024.
“This new class of ships will join our core fleet and forms part of our ongoing strategy to introduce large, modern, and fuel-efficient vessels to further strengthen our fleet competitiveness,” said a spokesperson for the line.
Currently, the world’s largest ULCS have a maximum capacity of slightly below 24 000 TEUs.
“The six new ULCS, with capacity exceeding 24 000 TEUs, will help bring economies of scale and significantly lower carbon emissions through a state-of-the-art hull design that aims to maximise cargo intake and minimise fuel consumption,” the spokesperson said.
The vessels will be equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems to meet the emissions regulations of the IMO.
The newbuildings are planned to be built by the consortium of Imabari Shipbuilding Co and Japan Marine United Corporation.
