Introducing Orcelle Wind – our wind-powered pure car and truck carrier capable of achieving up to 90% reduced emissions compared to today’s most efficient vessels – which we hope to have ready for the high seas by 2025.
The transoceanic shipping industry might be the most carbon efficient mode of transport, but the fact remains that it still accounts for nearly 3% of global man-made greenhouse gas emissions.
Committed to sustainable logistics and as a market leader in RoRo shipping, Wallenius Wilhelmsen takes an active role in steering the industry towards a zero-emissions future, which is why we’re investing in new technology to improve the efficiency of our fleet and trialling alternative fuels.
Recognising there’s still more to be done, we’ve launched our most significant sustainability project to date: the world’s first full-size wind-powered pure car and truck carrier.
“Since 2008, we have been able to reduce CO2 intensity by 33%, which is a significant step. But the journey towards zero emissions requires great strides forward,” says Craig Jasienski, CEO of Wallenius Wilhelmsen. “We believe Orcelle Wind is one of them.”
Once completed, Orcelle Wind will have the capacity to carry 7,000 vehicles at speeds of 10-12 knots under sail – a speed that can be increased with the help of an onboard supplemental power system. In addition to cars, the wind-powered vessel will also be able to transport heavy machinery and breakbulk products.
“Orcelle Wind will be our technical and operational testbed for zero emission innovation, where we can assess and develop various zero-emission fuels and technology,” says Erik Noeklebye, EVP and COO of shipping services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
Plans are in place to have a design ready for contracting with a shipyard by mid-2022, with the finished vessel expected to set sail by 2025, subject to a comprehensive viability evaluation. To pass muster, Orcelle Wind must satisfy regulatory standards relating to safety and technical performance. Operational needs must also be meet, such as the suitability for deployment on multiple global trade lanes and the ability to manoeuvre in port in bad weather.
“It will take the dedicated collaboration of our world-class customers, partners and employees to make such a bold initiative as Orcelle Wind succeed,” adds Jasienski. “More than just evaluating the concept, we are committed to making this a success.”