United European Car Carriers (UECC) has taken a step toward enhancing its eco-friendly fleet by contracting China Merchants Jinling Shipyard Nanjing to build up to four new multi-fuel battery hybrid car carriers.
These vessels, slated for delivery starting in 2028, will feature advanced dual-fuel engines designed for LNG and low-carbon fuels, combined with a battery-hybrid system aimed at maximising energy efficiency.
The firm order covers two vessels, with an option for two more, potentially expanding UECC’s hybrid fleet to nine ships. The new carriers, each with a cargo capacity of 4,500 car equivalent units (CEU) and a length of 190 metres, include a hybrid battery system to reduce fuel consumption during low-demand periods, allowing engines to operate at optimised loads. Additionally, shore power connectivity will enable zero-emission operations while in port, a growing requirement in European environmental regulations.
‘Our focus on future-proofing these vessels aligns with our goal of eliminating fossil fuel use by 2040,’ stated Glenn Edvardsen, CEO of UECC. ‘This fleet expansion is designed to meet regulatory standards and accommodate upcoming fuel and technology advancements.’
UECC’s designs include solar panels on each vessel to supplement battery storage, a design that builds on the energy-efficiency features of UECC’s previous LNG-battery hybrids.
UECC's energy efficiency designs have previously included LNG engines with battery hybrids on vessels like Auto Advance and Auto Achieve. The company has reported a 25% decrease in CO2 emissions as a result, exceeding IMO's 40% carbon intensity reduction goal for 2030, according to a press release. UECC aims to extend these gains by increasing the share of biofuels used fleet-wide to 50% by year-end.
‘The latest investments emphasise UECC’s dedication to sustainable shipping solutions,’ Edvardsen added, indicating that the company remains committed to pioneering decarbonisation measures as it approaches its net-zero target.
