What's Happening?
Sallaum Lines has introduced its first LNG dual-fuel pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), named the Ocean Breeze, during a ceremony at the port of Antwerp. The Ocean Breeze, with a capacity of 7,500 CEU, is equipped with dual-fuel LNG engines that significantly reduce CO2, NOx, and particulate emissions compared to traditional vessels. The ship's design includes an optimized hull and energy-saving devices to enhance efficiency. Sallaum Terminal Antwerp has completed a $23.5 million expansion, increasing its capacity from 10,000 to 17,000 CEU, and improving infrastructure to handle four RoRo vessels simultaneously. The Ocean Breeze is the first of six LNG dual-fuel PCTCs planned to join Sallaum Lines' fleet by 2027, adding over 45,000 CEU in capacity.
Why It's Important?
The launch of the Ocean Breeze marks a significant step in Sallaum Lines' commitment to sustainable logistics. By adopting LNG dual-fuel technology, the company is reducing its environmental footprint, aligning with global efforts to lower emissions in the shipping industry. This move not only enhances Sallaum Lines' competitive position among global RoRo carriers but also meets the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation solutions. The expanded capacity and improved infrastructure at the Antwerp terminal will facilitate faster and more reliable services, benefiting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and supporting the company's 2030 net-zero ambition.
What's Next?
Sallaum Lines plans to continue expanding its fleet with five more LNG dual-fuel PCTCs by 2027, further increasing its capacity and reinforcing its position in the global logistics network. The company is also preparing to implement shore power connections and solar energy systems at its terminal, which will contribute to its sustainability goals. These initiatives are expected to enhance the resilience and efficiency of Sallaum Lines' supply chain, catering to the evolving needs of its customers and adapting to future vehicle flows between Asia, Europe, and other regions.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of LNG dual-fuel technology in shipping represents a broader shift towards cleaner energy solutions in the maritime industry. This transition is driven by regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable practices. Sallaum Lines' investment in green logistics not only addresses environmental concerns but also sets a precedent for other carriers to follow, potentially leading to widespread adoption of similar technologies across the industry.