CMA CGM to pioneer LNG-powered containerships on the transpacific

From October this year the French container line is to start deploying six 15,000 teu LNG-powered newbuildings on the trade between China and the US West Coast, with all six operational by end 2022.

Announcing the move at TPM21 CMA CGM chairman and ceo Rodolphe Saade said: “We will be the pioneer of the deployment of LNG vessels from China to Los Angeles/Long Beach by the end of this year.”

CMA CGM is the first line to operate LNG-powered ultra-large boxships and five of its series of nine 23,000 teu gas fuelled newbuildings are now in the operation on the Asia – Europe trade.

While LNG remains a fossil fuel and only reduces CO2 emission Saade believes it is the best option available today, and that as a shipping line they need to take action now.

“We can talk about projects we will be able to deliver in 10 – 15 years, but what is important is what is it we are doing now. At CMA CGM we have decide to be proactive and take action, that is why we decided to move forward with vessels that are LNG propelled,” he said.

Israeli line ZIM plans to deploy ten 15,000 teu LNG powered ships on the Asia – US East Coast trade from 2023.