Mitsubishi to build world's largest ro-ro carriers

Tokyo: Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has won an order to build four of the world's largest roll-on roll-off carriers for the Wilh. Wilhelmsen (WW) and Wallenius Lines (OW) joint venture Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics. The vessels feature a greater cargo capacity of 138 000 cubic metre - close to 10% more than the WW/OW partnership's most recent ro-ro carriers and will be built at MHI's Nagasaki yard for delivery in 2011 and 2012.

The tankers are designed for transportation and handling of high and heavy cargo (H&H), non-containerised cargo (NCC) and cars.  They are said to be unique on the basis of innovative design criteria such as high ramp capacity, deck strength and height, low fuel consumption, good transportation economy and safe cargo handling.  Environmental consideration has been in focus on this new generation of ro-ro vessels. Particular attention has been paid to hull lines development in order to reduce fuel oil consumption and exhaust gas emissions. The exhaust gas energy will also be recovered to generate the entire electrical need at sea. Additionally, an advanced ballast treatment system will be installed to reduce harmful transfer of micro-organisms between different ecosystems.  

"This order will add further capacity to satisfy our customers needs and secure our position in emerging markets," said Lone Fonss Schroeder, president Wallenius Lines. WW and OW are currently pursuing an extensive newbuilding programme comprising some 43 vessels to be delivered up to 2012.  [18/12/07]