AtoB@C Shipping's second coaster in a series of 12 plug-in hybrids was launched at the Chowgule Shipyard.

The 90 by 16 m, 5,350 dwt, 1A ice-class ship offering 7,650 m3 of carrying capacity joins her sister ship Electramar (due to enter traffic this autumn).

Each hybrid coaster will feature a 1.0MWh battery pack and an onshore power supply (OPS) connector. The energy stored in the batteries will be used for all-electric sailing, optimising the main engine load and providing extra power (e.g., when cutting through thick ice). The battery packs can be charged when berthed via an OPS facility or at sea using the main engine.

Works are progressing on Stellamar and Electramar's sisters: the hull sections of Ecomar will be moved to the slipway for assembly; the steel cutting for the sixth vessel, Terramar, commenced in late June 2023, while the fifth vessel, Maximar, had its keel laid at the end of July 2023.

Ultimately, a new vessel will follow every three months until all 12 units are delivered by Q2 2026.

"I would like to thank all parties involved in this successful project. It is great to be back here at Chowgule Shipyard and witness the great progress with the construction of these state-of-the-art vessels. Our customers' need for a modern and sustainable fleet is increasing day by day, and we are happy that we can answer that demand shortly," commented Frida Rowland, Commercial Director at ESL Shipping (AtoB@C Shipping's parent company).

Photo: ESL Shipping