Singapore-based container liner shipping company Pacific International Lines (PIL) has christened its first 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ship “Kota Oasis”.
The “Kota Oasis” is the first of a series of four 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships of the “O” class ordered by PIL from Yangzijiang Shipbuilding in China. These newbuildings are part of PIL’s long-term plan to optimize the deployment of its network and renew its fleet to increase operational efficiency and sustainability. The vessel was christened by Cindy Chang, wife of Peter Chang, Vice Chairman of PIL, at a ceremony at the Yangzijiang Shipyard in China.
PIL aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050
Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Kota Oasis to our fleet. This vessel is another important milestone on our journey towards greater sustainability and operational efficiency. As the first Asian container shipping line to invest in LNG dual-fuel vessels in 2022, we have made a bold commitment to reduce our environmental footprint and achieve our net-zero emissions target by 2050.”
Together with the recently delivered 14,000 TEU “E” class vessels, the “O” class vessels are expected to play a critical role in enhancing our global connectivity and meeting the evolving needs of our customers, according to the shipping company. The name “Kota Oasis” symbolizes a haven of sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry and embodies PIL’s vision to create a greener and cleaner future for shipping.
Operation with LNG and methane possible
PIL’s “O” class vessels are not only powered by LNG, but can also use more environmentally friendly biomethane fuels and are equipped with Win-GD XDF engines with iCER (Intelligent Control by Exhaust Recycling), which significantly reduce methane emissions. In addition, PIL’s “O” class vessels are equipped with ammonia swap tanks.
The “Kota Oasis” will be the fifth LNG-powered vessel to be delivered by PIL. It joins the four 14,000 TEU LNG vessels that PIL has delivered since last year. PIL has a further 13 LNG dual-fuel vessels on order for delivery over the next few years.
