First two Wallenius Sleipner car carriers deliver on their green promise

Photo: Wallenius Marine

When the first of Wallenius Marine’s Sleipner concept car carriers, Future Way, was delivered in September 2024, (see story) the company said the vessel marked another step towards truly sustainable shipping.

The Sleipner concept vessels feature an advanced hydro- and aerodynamic design developed by Danish naval architect firm Knud E. Hansen to reduce emissions, energy use and environmental impact.

Today, Wallenius Marine reported that the first two vessels in the Sleipner concept – Future Way and Way Forward – have, after just over a year in operation, demonstrated excellent performance, low fuel consumption and CII values far below current requirement levels. This means they emit significantly less CO2 per transported unit than the average for comparable vessels, placing them comfortably in the highest energy efficiency class (A) according to the IMO’s international classification.

The Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) measures a vessel’s carbon emissions relative to cargo capacity and distance sailed, and is reported annually to the IMO’s Data Collection System (DCS). The thresholds for ratings A to E will become increasingly strict through 2030, making these results particularly important from a long-term performance perspective. The A‑rating of Way Forward and Future Way places them among the top approximately 10% globally within their category of RO/RO vehicle carriers. They are already well within future emission limits and will retain their A‑rating for many years to come, says Wallenius Marine.

“Seeing our first Sleipner vessels perform so well in real operations is highly gratifying, and it confirms that our vessel design, combined with efficient operations and a dedicated crew, together create measurable climate benefits,” says Johan Mattsson, CEO of Wallenius Marine.

Technology and design

• Hydrodynamically optimized hull for reduced water resistance and low fuel consumption.
• Streamlined, low superstructure and integrated ventilation that reduce air resistance.
• Optimized, lightweight steel structure that improves performance.
• Dual‑fuel machinery for LNG/LBG and diesel/biodiesel.
• Optimized cargo configuration enabling efficient loading/unloading and minimizing the need for ballast water.
• Capacity: 6,502 cars (RT43 CEU), length: 199.95 m, gross tonnage: 62,432.