Hapag-Lloyd is ordering up to thirty new liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel container vessels in China, marking a significant expansion.
According to Hapag-Lloyd, the company has placed a firm order for ten 17,000 TEU vessels with an option for five more at Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, each priced at $210 million and equipped with LNG dual-fuel systems and a reefer capacity of 1,600 units. Additionally, Hapag-Lloyd has partnered with New Times Shipbuilding for another ten firm and five optional 9,200 TEU boxships, priced at $140 million each.
As informed, Hapag-Lloyd recently welcomed several new LNG-powered ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) under the German flag. These vessels feature advanced LNG dual-fuel engines and energy-efficient designs, contributing to Hapag-Lloyd’s goal to operate its entire fleet in a climate-neutral manner by 2045.
The company is also exploring a multi-fuel future, looking into options like methanol and ammonia, while planning retrofits for alternative fuels and enhancing fleet efficiency. Earlier this year, Hapag-Lloyd partnered with Seaspan Corporation to retrofit five 10,100 TEU vessels from traditional S90 engines to dual-fuel engines capable of running on methanol.