A new ro-ro vessel concept developed in collaboration between Wallenius Marine and Knud E Hansen builds on the Sleipner PCTC concept and on operational data from the Sleipner vessels ‘Future Way’ and ‘Way Forward’.
The new ro-ro design, which includes an engine room in the bow, creates, within an overall length of 170m, a large cargo capacity of 2,720 lane metres, equivalent to 181 trailers. The Sleipner RoRo concept means that loading and unloading can be carried out quickly and efficiently via the stern ramp and main deck across the full width of the ship, as the engine room has been relocated to the bow.
Propulsion is provided by a dual fuel electric powertrain (LNG/LBG/MGO/Biodiesel) and 360° steerable gearless Azipods, to provide good manoeuvrability, speeding up and facilitating approaches in crowded ports. The concept is future-proofed with provisions for wing sails, shore power and alternative fuel sources such as batteries and fuel cells, which can further reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Urban Lishajko, Head of Ship Design, Wallenius Marine, said: “The ro-ro segment of shortsea shipping plays a key role in the transition to more sustainable transport, not least through the transfer of goods from land to sea transport. At the same time, the industry is facing a generational change where new tonnage is needed to meet both capacity needs and demands for increased energy efficiency and reduced emissions. Together with Knud E Hansen, we have developed a concept that balances capacity, operational efficiency and environmental performance.”
With the new Sleipner RoRo concept, Wallenius Marine and Knud E Hansen are strengthening their role as driving forces in the development of truly sustainable shipping.
Lishajko added: “With our combined experience and knowledge from the operation, newbuilding and design of various ro-ro ship concepts, we can take advantage of solutions that have worked well for other ships and develop something new. Our strength lies in finding the best combination of design and technology for each ship’s specific mission, with the aim of continuously reducing emissions and other environmental impacts.”
Image: Sleipner RoRo concept vessel (source: Wallenius Marine / Knud E Hansen)
