DNV GL and DSIC to develop LNG-fuelled mega boxship

Following on the heels of CMA CGM’s groundbreaking announcement, just ahead of the major Asian maritime technology show Marintec last year, to build nine LNG-fuelled ULCVs, interest in alternative fuels has moved from the margins to the centre of the maritime world as environmental regulations designed to reduce shipping’s emissions to air come into effect. For many operational uses, the combination of technical maturity, efficiency, availability, and emissions reduction mean that LNG is now a viable solution.

Notably these vessels are almost predominantly a French enterprise, featuring containment systems by GTT and being classed by Bureau Veritas. Construction will be split between Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding and Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, both under CSSC, while DSIC is currently under CSIC which it is strongly believed will be merged with the former soon.

Read More: BV to class, and GTT design LNG fuel tanks for CMA CGM's 22,000 teu newbuilds

“In developing this new 23,000 teu LNG-fuelled ULCV design, we will show that DSIC can deliver vessels at the cutting edge of the market after two 20,000 teu container vessels were successfully delivered to COSCO Shipping Group this year,” said Yang Zhi Zhong, president of DSIC. “We see a continuing strong market for ULCV vessels, with lower slot costs especially valued on the main trading routes. At the same time the expansion in bunkering infrastructure in both China and Europe means that LNG is becoming a viable solution for container vessels, lowering costs and ensuring compliance with incoming regulations.”

“We would like to thank DSIC for selecting DNV GL to take part in this project and trusting our expertise in LNG-fuelled and container shipping,” said DNV GL – Maritime ceo Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen. “The new JDP will build on the long and productive cooperation between DSIC and DNV GL, and we look forward to working with DSIC to ensure that the design meets the relevant class and international standards and regulations.”