Wallenius Wilhelmsen signs for up to a dozen methanol-fuelled newbuilds in China

Norwegian car carrier operator Wallenius Wilhelmsen has lined up up to 12 9,350 ceu vessels for construction in China which will be capable of running on methanol and ammonia-ready.

The Oslo-listed company has signed a letter of intent with Jinling Shipyard Jiangsu for delivery of four firm ships from mid-2026, with options for an additional eight units.

The move, which will see the newbuild class be named “The Shaper Class,” is part of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s goal of achieving a net-zero emissions integrated supply chain service by 2027.

“There is an urgent need for our industry to transform over the next couple of years. As a company, we are determined to shape this industry and lead the way to capitalise effectively on changing circumstances, as we grow with customers and partners sharing our journey,” said Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO and president of Wallenius Wilhelmsen, adding that the company believes that “methanol is the fastest way to net-zero emission.”

Wallenius Wilhelmsen operates around 125 ships and is already teaming up with customers on reducing emissions through biofuel. The new vessels will speed up the company’s operations towards net-zero, said Leroi, adding that: “This requires new and more expensive fuels and we are committed to securing this together with our customers as soon as it can be made available.”