Pacific International Lines (PIL) is stepping up its fleet renewal programme and has ordered five new container vessels with a 13,000 TEU capacity and dual-fuel liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines.
The neo Panamax vessels are expected to be delivered progressively from the end of 2026.
In the announcement, the Singapore-headquartered PIL said construction of the vessels had been awarded to Chinese shipbuilder Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard.
The modern vessels are designed with a focus on efficiency, safety, and sustainability. They will be flexible enough to meet the demands of different voyages, weather conditions, and load capacities. Equipped with dual-fuel engines and auxiliaries, they will be able to run on both LNG and low-sulfur fuel oil.
"These latest orders are part of PIL's fleet renewal strategy for larger and more eco-friendly vessel types. Together with another eight vessels we currently have under construction, we now have 13 new vessels that will contribute significantly towards our decarbonisation goal of net zero emissions by 2050," said Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL.
He noted that as part of PIL's commitment to putting customers first, the shipping line is continually optimising its fleet with newer and more advanced vessels to better serve customers in our key markets.
"For instance, the vessels will have a high refrigerated container capacity payload to support our services for the transport of fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat and pharmaceuticals," Kastrup said.
The vessels will incorporate the latest technological and energy-saving features, including an optimised hull form, variable-frequency drive (VFD) motors for larger pumps and ventilation blowers, lower-energy LED lightings, as well as premium hull coatings. When completed, the vessels will be fully compliant with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new buildings and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII).
In addition, increased digitalisation, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), has been incorporated into the design and equipment for automating tasks.
PIL noted that all of these improvements will contribute to more efficient operations, provide a safe and modern working environment as well as enhance the welfare of our seafarers.
The vessels' digital features will further boost the ability of PIL's Centre for Maritime Efficiency to optimise vessel operations and routes, increase safety and security, as well as minimise energy usage.
PIL is currently building four 14,000 TEU and four 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels. The first two of the 14,000 TEU vessels are expected to be delivered later this year.
"PIL's order of modern innovative vessels demonstrates its approach of leveraging its expertise and technology to provide efficient and sustainable solutions," the company said.
