In a bold move to revolutionize the maritime industry, Oslo-based ro/ro carrier UECC is doubling down on its commitment to low-carbon operations in the European market. The company's latest announcement showcases its unwavering dedication to sustainable shipping solutions, as it unveils a groundbreaking contract for two new 4,500 CEU PCTCs powered by multi-fuel LNG engines and cutting-edge battery-hybrid technology.

Charting a Course Towards a Greener Future

Forging a Powerful Partnership

UECC's decision to partner with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard for the construction of these state-of-the-art vessels is a testament to the company's strategic vision and its pursuit of excellence. The CEO of UECC, Glenn Edvardsen, expressed his delight in finalizing this agreement, stating that it will serve as a solid foundation for a strong and mutually beneficial relationship between the two entities.

Building on Past Success

UECC's previous series of LNG battery hybrids, including the Auto Advance, Auto Achieve, and Auto Aspire, were constructed at Jiangnan Shipyard in 2021-22. These vessels have already exceeded the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) target for a 40 percent reduction in carbon intensity by 2030, showcasing the company's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

Raising the Bar with Innovative Features

The newly-ordered ships from Jingling will be approximately 25 percent larger than their predecessors, but they also boast a long list of cutting-edge efficiency improvements. These include fuel-saving propulsion technologies, shore power equipment, and solar panels on the top deck, all designed to maximize the vessels' environmental performance and reduce their carbon footprint.

Verifiable Sustainability Tracking

UECC's dedication to sustainability extends beyond the design and construction of its vessels. The company tracks its carbon-saving activities through a comprehensive CO2 registry, allowing it to provide its charterers with a verifiable format for the benefits of clean fuel usage. This commitment to transparency and accountability is a key differentiator in the industry, as UECC empowers its customers to further their own decarbonization strategies.

Fueling the Shift Towards Greener Automotive Logistics

UECC's sustainability manager, Daniel Gent, highlighted the company's role in supporting the decarbonization efforts of its customers, particularly the progressive automakers focused on cleaner cars. By offering a "great springboard" for their Scope Three emissions reduction, UECC is positioning itself as a trusted partner in the quest for sustainable automotive logistics.

Pioneering the Use of Liquefied Biomethane

As part of its commitment to reducing emissions, UECC recently booked a significant amount of CO2-equivalent savings by purchasing a month's worth of 100 percent liquefied biomethane (LBM) bunkering in the Port of Zeebrugge for all its LNG-fueled vessels. This innovative approach to fuel sourcing further solidifies UECC's position as a leader in the transition towards a more sustainable maritime industry.