Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) and its group company MOL Ferry, has ordered two LNG-fuelled ferries.
MOL signed the contract with Naikai Zosen Corp to build the two ferries for delivery in 2025.
They will replace two vessels that MOL Ferry currently operates on the Oarai/Tomakomai route.
MOL is also currently building Japan’s first two LNG-fuelled ferries, ‘Sunflower Kurenai’ and ‘Sunflower Murasaki’, which are due to enter service in 2023.
The newly ordered ferries will reduce CO2 emissions by about 35% in comparison with ferries currently in service, by adopting the latest technologies.
Main characteristics:
- Use of LNG fuel- Compared to conventional marine fuel oil, LNG is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by about 25%, SOx by virtually 100%, and NOx by about 85%, allowing for a significant reduction of vessels’ environmental impact
- Adoption of the latest technologies- The new ferries adopt the ‘ISHIN’ ship design, which features a streamlined shape with an aerodynamically rounded the bow and can use diagonal headwinds to help propel the vessel. These ferries will be also equipped with high-performance, high-efficiency engines. In addition, new technologies, such as energy-saving devices developed by Naikai Zosen have been incorporated to further reduce CO2 emissions
- Response to Modal Shift – As the number of trucks is expected to increase, due to the acceleration of Modal Shift, all cabins will be private, offering additional comfort not only for passengers but also long-distance truck drivers.
Naikai Zosen is developing an energy-saving device called the ‘Spray Tearing Plate’, which will be installed on the new ferries to further boost energy efficiency to improve energy-saving technology.
With this order for the first LNG-powered ferries to be built at the shipyard, Naikai Zosen said that it aimed to win additional orders for eco-friendly LNG-fuelled coastal ferries and ro-ro ships.
