Recently, Greek shipping company Atlas Maritime successfully collaborated with China’s CIMC Raffles, a subsidiary of the CIMC Group, to hold a naming ceremony for two LNG dual-fuel car carriers (PCTC) in Yantai, China. The two new vessels were named “Electric Star” and “Green Star”. The vessels are LNG Dual-Fuel Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) with an impressive carrying capacity of 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEU). They are designed with dimensions of 199.9 meters in length, 38 meters in width, and a design draft of 8.6 meters, ensuring robust operational capabilities. With a design speed of 19 knots, the vessels are powered by a MAN 6S60ME-C10.5-GI-EcoEGR main engine, which is prepared for future ammonia fuel compatibility, making them environmentally forward-thinking. Additionally, they are equipped with two Type C LNG storage tanks, providing a total capacity of 1,650 cubic meters, further supporting their sustainability and efficiency in maritime operations.
Significance of the Collaboration
This partnership marks the first collaboration between Atlas Maritime and CIMC Raffles and introduces LNG dual-fuel technology to the Atlas Maritime fleet for the first time. These vessels are the first two of a four-vessel series, with the remaining two expected to be delivered by 2026. CIMC Raffles highlighted that these vessels, designed by SDARI (Shanghai Ship Design and Research Institute), meet the current market demand for clean energy while also being prepared for future upgrades to ammonia fuel.
Global Trend toward Green Shipping
According to DNV, global orders for LNG-powered vessels have continued to rise. In 2024, LNG-powered vessel orders reached 264 units, a 103% increase compared to 2023’s 130 orders and 222 orders in 2022. LNG dual-fuel vessels, with their advantages in reducing carbon emissions and complying with international environmental regulations, are becoming a key development focus in the shipping industry. Atlas Maritime’s adoption of LNG dual-fuel technology demonstrates its commitment to green shipping and sustainable development.
The newly named “Electric Star” and “Green Star” showcase technological innovation and set a new benchmark for the shipping industry’s transition to low-carbon solutions.
