Sallaum Lines has placed an order with China's Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry Co. (XSI) for two pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) that will feature dual-fuel LNG propulsion and be prepared for future ammonia use. The agreement includes an option for two additional vessels of the same type. These new ships, with a capacity of 8,600 car equivalent units (CEU), will represent the largest vessels in Sallaum Lines' fleet. Beyond LNG, they will also be capable of operating on very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) and marine gasoil (MGO).
This order follows the recent delivery of other LNG dual-fuel vessels to Sallaum Lines earlier this month, indicating a strategic shift towards more environmentally friendly shipping solutions. The move aligns with broader industry trends focusing on decarbonization and the adoption of alternative fuels to meet future emissions regulations.
For freight forwarders and shippers, particularly those in the automotive sector, this development signals increasing capacity for car and truck transport with a focus on sustainability. The introduction of larger, dual-fuel vessels could contribute to more stable capacity and potentially lower emissions for vehicle logistics, though the immediate impact on rates is not specified. The readiness for ammonia fuel also positions these vessels for long-term compliance with evolving environmental standards, offering a degree of future-proofing for supply chains utilizing Sallaum Lines' services.
