ESL subsidiary orders six hybrid vessels

(Posted on 29/09/21)

ESL Shipping’s Swedish subsidiary AtoB@C Shipping AB has ordered a series of six new, highly energy-efficient electric hybrid vessels. These new 1A ice class vessels are market leaders in terms of cargo capacity, technology, and innovation. The total investment value of the six ships is approximately 70 million euros. AtoB@C Shipping has the option to expand the order with several ships.

The greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2, per cargo unit transported will decrease by almost 50% compared to the existing ships, making the vessels the most efficient in the world in their class. The vessels’ battery packs, shore-side electricity solution and electric hybrid use enable completely emission-free and noise-free port calls. Ships can also arrive and leave the port with electric power only.

The new vessels will be built at Chowgule and Company Private Limited shipyard in India and will be delivered starting from the third quarter of 2023. The yard is part of the family-owned Chowgule Group founded in 1916 and has long experience in building ships of similar size for several European clients.

The design work of the ships and comprehensive model tests have been carried out together with the Dutch SMB Naval Architects. The company has been closely involved in the design of the vessels and has tailored the vessels to customer needs. Special attention has been paid to the energy efficiency and arrangements of cargo spaces.

"We are very pleased to be able to invest in new, energy-efficient vessels. Together with the shipbuilder Chowgule and AtoB@C Shipping, we will make shipping even more environmentally friendly,” said Mikki Koskinen, Managing Director of ESL Shipping and Chairman of the Board of AtoB@C Shipping.