Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has signed two contracts that will see it build Japan’s first methanol-powered roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) cargo ships for Toyofuji Shipping and Fukuju Shipping.
The Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) subsidiary will build two 169.9m long ro-ro ships with a gross tonnage of 15,750 and a passenger car capacity of around 2,300 vehicles.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Both ro-ro vessels will be built at the Enoura Plant of MHI’s Shimonoseki Shipyard and Machinery Works in Yamaguchi Prefecture with a scheduled completion at the end of the 2027 fiscal year.
The ships will be fitted with a dual-fuel engine capable of using methanol and a heavy fuel oil, reducing carbon emissions by around 10% compared to similar vessels not enabled for methanol use.
Mitsubishi said its participation in the construction of the Japan-first ro-ro vessels highlights its role providing more environmentally-friendly solutions and vessels that “contribute to stable navigation for customers.”
The size of the vessels, bigger than similar ror-ros in Japan, will also allow for less frequent voyages, something the company says will contribute to a shift in working schedules for seafarers by allowing for increased holiday and rest time.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataThe contracts highlight the popularity of methanol as a more sustainable fuel in the maritime industry, following in the footsteps of vessels already on the ocean such as Maersk’s fleet of methanol-powered container ships.
