Short-sea vehicle forwarder, Neptune Lines, has ordered two new pure car and truck carriers for its 22-strong fleet, each with a capacity for 4,200 car equivalent units (CEUs). The company said the vessels will increase cargo capacity by 36% compared to the current core fleet vessels and reduce emissions in line with global sustainability goals.

The two vessels represent the second such order with Fujian Mawei Shipyard in China as part of Neptune Lines’ Genesis Project, aimed at introducing vessels that use the latest engineering technology to cut emissions. They will be built equipped with hybrid energy systems, designed to use battery installation to supply peak power and with dual fuel systems able to run on LNG or very low sulphur fuel oil to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a high pressure two-stroke engines. 

Neptune Genesis PCTC

Neptune Lines Genesis Project PCTCs will be built equipped with hybrid energy system

The vessels will have the capability to connect to shore power when available to cut emissions when in port. The design has been developed together with Deltamarin and the vessels will be classed by DNV. 

These latest orders are expected to be delivered in 2027. Neptune Lines placed an order for the first two dual fuel PCTCs from Fujian Mawei Shipyard in December last year, for delivery in 2026. 

“Neptune Lines continues to improve its environmental performance by using the latest advanced technologies, fuels, and scale improvements, said Neptune Lines’ CEO Craig Jasienski, when the first order was placed. “We are determined to drive the energy transition of the shipping industry, while remaining committed to providing adaptable and sophisticated solutions to our customers’ needs and reacting swiftly to their demands. We remain dedicated to our mantra of Wake Forward.

Neptune Lines said its efforts to reduce emissions from its shipping is seen in the 52% reduction in carbon output measure to the end of 2023, compared with a 2008 baseline. It said the reduction will continue and it is on track to achieve a 68% improvement in carbon output by the end of 2030.