Containership order surge boosting large engine demand

WinGD says it has seen more than 80 orders for its largest engines as shipowners invest in ultra-large containership tonnage, and contracts for its 920 mm bore X92-B engine are six times they same time last year.

The Swiss-based engine manufacturer noted that MSC had given it a good share of its newbuilding programme. The demand for LNG-fuelled large-bore engines is also increasing as shipowners look for emissions reductions. The X92DF dual-fuel Otto-cycle engine was first installed on CMA CGM’s series of nine gas-fuelled 23,000 teu newbuilds delivered from early 2020.

Volkmar Galke, WinGD Global Sales Director said: “It has shaped up to be a competitive year in the containership segment as owners race to secure spots at shipyards.

“The demand on global trade has proven to be strong, growing even stronger through the global pandemic. Shipowners today must promise to not only deliver their goods on time but also in the most sustainable way possible. The efficiencies of these large-bore engines provide significant benefits which make them the clear choice as the way forward.”