New eco-friendly ship for the Grimaldi Group
The company has taken delivery in China of the Grande Oriente, a rolling stock transport vessel designed for the future use of ammonia as fuel
The Grimaldi Group has taken delivery of its new vessel, the Grande Oriente. The vessel was built by China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu and, for the Naples-based shipping company, this is its twelfth ammonia-ready PCTC (Pure Car & Truck Carrier), meaning it is designed for the future use of ammonia as a zero-carbon alternative fuel.
Like her sister ships already in service – namely the Grande Shanghai, Grande Svezia, Grande Michigan and Grande Inghilterra – the new vessel has a high cargo capacity and a low environmental impact, thanks to its unique design and the numerous technological solutions fitted on board. Measuring 220 metres in length and 38 metres in width, the Grande Oriente has a gross tonnage of 93,145 tonnes and a cruising speed of 18 knots. Across its 14 decks, it can carry both electric and fossil-fuel-powered vehicles, with a maximum capacity of 9,000 CEUs (car equivalent units).
The ship’s name alludes to the group’s expansion into Eastern markets, where the company has strengthened its presence in recent years. In addition to the Ammonia ready classification from the Italian Naval Register (RINA), which certifies that it can be converted to use ammonia as a zero-carbon alternative fuel, the Grande Oriente has also been awarded the Green plus class notations, Green Star 3, and Comfort Vibration and Comfort Noise Port.
The vessel is fitted with large lithium-ion batteries, with a total capacity of 5 megawatt-hours, and will also be able to receive electricity from shore whilst in port (cold ironing) at ports equipped with the necessary infrastructure. Both systems enable zero emissions during port calls. It also utilises energy-optimisation technologies: from 2,500 square metres of solar panels to silicone-based paints to reduce drag, and smart ventilation and air-conditioning control systems. The electronically controlled engine is fitted with exhaust gas treatment systems to reduce emissions. It also features a rudder known as the gate rudder, installed for the first time on PCTC vessels, comprising two foil blades positioned on either side of the propeller to improve propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability.
“The Grande Oriente,” says Emanuele Grimaldi, CEO of the group of the same name, “is not just a new, state-of-the-art vessel, but also the symbol of a strategy that is firmly focused on the Eastern markets, which are now increasingly central to global trade flows.” The vessel will, moreover, make its maiden voyage on the Asia–Europe route, carrying 700 linear metres of roll-on/roll-off cargo and over 6,200 cars, setting sail in the coming days from Taicang (China) bound for Portbury (United Kingdom).
