ClassNK has granted Approvals in Principle (AiPs) for three innovative vehicle carrier designs crafted by the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI).
The initial AiP is a noteworthy recognition for an ammonia-ready LNG dual-fueled vehicle carrier with a 7,000 CEU capacity—a pioneering achievement in China’s self-sufficient design landscape.
According to a statement, for the ship with the dimension of LOA 199.99m x B 38m × D 37m, Draft 8.6m, SDARI integrates the GTT MARK III Flex containment system for LNG and ammonia fuel storage to maximize the cargo capacity efficiently.
Additionally, ClassNK has granted AiPs for both methanol dual-fueled and ammonia dual-fueled vehicle carriers, each with a 10,000 CEU capacity. These vessels are poised to spearhead the evolution of ultra-large vehicle carriers, showcasing SDARI’s commitment to anticipating and meeting future market demands.
SDARI’s trio of models exemplifies a new era of environmentally conscious vehicle carriers, designed to seamlessly adapt to a spectrum of alternative fuel options and align with upcoming market trends.
ClassNK’s active involvement in SDARI’s development projects, conducted following the latest structural rules Part C and Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels, signifies a pivotal milestone. By granting AiPs, ClassNK demonstrates its dedication to providing expertise that supports SDARI’s pioneering efforts to advance the industry’s transition to decarbonization.