Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, a division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), has secured an order for three new methanol-fueled roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo ships from Japanese shipping companies Toyofuji Shipping, Miyazaki Sangyo Kaiun, and Nichitoku Kisen. The vessels are set to enhance the environmental sustainability of maritime transport in Japan, with delivery scheduled for fiscal 2028.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding
-
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has received orders for three methanol-fueled RoRo ships.
-
The vessels will be built at the Enoura Plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
-
Each ship will have a capacity of approximately 2,300 passenger vehicles.
-
The dual-fuel engines are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by over 20%.
-
This order follows a previous contract for two similar vessels.
Details of the New Orders
The new RoRo ships will measure approximately 168 meters in length and 30.2 meters in width, with a gross tonnage of 15,750. Designed to carry around 2,300 passenger vehicles, these vessels will be equipped with advanced features aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Key specifications include:
-
Length: 168.0 meters
-
Width: 30.2 meters
-
Gross Tonnage: 15,750
-
Vehicle Capacity: Approximately 2,300 passenger vehicles
-
Maximum Speed: 21 knots
Environmental Impact
The main engine of these ships will be a high-performance dual-fuel engine capable of operating on both methanol and heavy fuel oil. This innovative design is expected to reduce CO2 emissions per transport unit by more than 20% compared to existing vessels operated by Toyofuji Shipping.
Furthermore, the potential future use of green methanol could lead to even greater reductions in emissions throughout the lifecycle of the fuel, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Technological Advancements
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding is leveraging its proprietary energy-saving system technology to enhance the efficiency of these vessels. This includes:
-
High-Efficiency Propellers: Designed to maximize thrust while minimizing fuel consumption.
-
High-Performance Rudders: To improve maneuverability and reduce resistance.
-
Windscreen at the Bow: A design feature aimed at reducing propulsion resistance.
These advancements not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also improve operational efficiency, allowing for better scheduling and increased rest time for crew members.
Future of Methanol-Fueled Shipping
This order marks a significant step in the growing trend of methanol-fueled shipping in Japan. Following the earlier order for two similar vessels in June 2024, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding is positioning itself as a leader in the development of eco-friendly maritime transport solutions.
As the demand for sustainable shipping solutions continues to rise, Mitsubishi’s commitment to building efficient, environmentally friendly vessels is expected to play a crucial role in the future of the shipping industry in Japan and beyond.
Sources
-
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Books Order For Three, Marine News Magazine.
-
Orders pile up for methanol-fuelled roros in Japan, Splash247.
-
Mitsubishi gets shipbuilding order for three efficient ROROs, safety4sea.
