Tsuneishi hails new milestone in construction of methanol-fueled containerships

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding is making significant strides in the maritime industry with the construction of methanol-fueled vessels. The company has completed the first block loading for a 5,900 TEU containership at its facility in China, marking a major milestone in its commitment to sustainable shipping solutions. This project, part of a contract signed in 2023, involves the construction of four such vessels, showcasing Tsuneishi’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility.

First Block Loading Completed

On April 16, 2025, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding’s yard in China achieved a notable milestone by completing the first block loading for its inaugural methanol-fueled containership. This vessel is set to be the largest ever constructed by the company, emphasizing its ambition to lead in the development of eco-friendly shipping technologies. The ship’s design features an enhanced hull form and the MT-FAST energy-saving device, which improves propulsion efficiency by approximately 4%. This is accomplished through the strategic installation of multiple fins in front of the propeller, optimizing water flow.

Additionally, the vessel is equipped with a large-capacity shaft generator, allowing it to achieve superior loading performance and fuel economy compared to traditional fuel oil vessels in the same category. The HiMSEN engine (8H32DF-LM), supplied by HD Hyundai, will power the ship, and all onboard generators are designed to be methanol-fueled. This innovative approach aims to achieve carbon neutrality, with only a minimal amount of pilot fuel required. Furthermore, the vessel’s infrastructure supports large-capacity alternative maritime power supplies, enabling generators to be deactivated during anchorage, thus achieving zero CO2 emissions.

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Broader Initiatives in Sustainable Shipping

In addition to the methanol-fueled containership project, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding is actively collaborating with Onomichi Dockyard to develop the Bingo 42, a 42,200 dwt methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier. This partnership aims to address various challenges in vessel design and enhance market competitiveness under a joint brand name. Last November, Tsuneishi launched what it claims to be the world’s first 65,700 dwt methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier, designed for low environmental impact, high load capacity, and fuel efficiency. This vessel is based on the TESS666 Aeroline design, recognized as the largest class within the Ultramax category with Panamax breadth.

Moreover, Tsuneishi has partnered with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS) to retrofit a conventionally-fueled Kamsarmax bulk carrier to dual-fuel methanol. This project has received approval in principle (AiP) from ClassNK, highlighting the shipbuilder’s commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the maritime sector. The retrofit design and technological solutions were developed in close collaboration with Germany’s MAN ES, which supplied the main engine, further solidifying Tsuneishi’s role as a leader in eco-friendly shipbuilding.