Germany-based container shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd has placed significant orders for up to 30 liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel container vessels from Chinese shipbuilders.
After a pause in newbuilding orders, Hapag-Lloyd is now expanding its fleet with ten firm orders and five optional 17,000 TEU vessels from Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, according to data from Intermodal. Each vessel is priced at $210 million and will feature LNG dual-fuel systems, along with a 1.6k reefer capacity.
In addition, the Hamburg-based carrier has also contracted New Times Shipbuilding, another Chinese shipyard, for the construction of ten firm and five optional 9,200 TEU vessels. These units are priced at $140 million each and will be equipped with LNG dual-fuel systems.
Eco-Friendly Expansion and Commitment to Sustainability
Hapag-Lloyd, ranked as the world’s fifth-largest container shipping company according to Alphaliner’s TOP 100 list, welcomed several new LNG-powered ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) in 2024. These eco-friendly vessels are the largest ever to sail under the German flag. The newbuilds are designed with advanced LNG dual-fuel engines and energy-efficient features.
This move is part of the company’s broader goal to operate its entire fleet in a climate-neutral manner by 2045.
Multi-Fuel Future: Methanol and Ammonia
In addition to using LNG as marine fuel, Hapag-Lloyd is preparing for a multi-fuel future by exploring alternative fuels like methanol and potentially ammonia. The company plans to implement fuel retrofits, order more vessels, and continue improving fleet efficiency with innovative energy solutions in the coming years.
Earlier this year, Hapag-Lloyd entered into a partnership with Seaspan Corporation, a Hong Kong-based containership owner, to retrofit and convert five 10,100 TEU vessels powered by conventional S90 engines to dual-fuel engines capable of running on methanol. These vessels will remain on long-term charter from Seaspan after the retrofit.
