The Norwegian-Swedish shipping line has decided to make four (out of 12 ordered) car carriers bigger, adding six metres in length and two in width, thus making it possible to have 14 instead of 12 decks.

The enlargement will up the car carriers' capacity from 9,300 to 11,700 CEUs.

Like their sister ships, the bigger 'Shapers' will feature dual-fuel, methanol-capable engines.

China Merchants Jingling Shipyard will start delivering the first Shapers from H2 2026, while the up-sized vessels - from late 2027. The latter date is also when WW plans to offer an end-to-end net-zero service with the new class of car carriers.

"Providing significant savings on fuel and emissions in comparison to the current fleet and with both unparalleled capacity and the highest ramp strength in the order book, these vessels are truly fit for the future," shared Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services, Wallenius Wilhelmsen.

Photo: Wallenius Wilhelmsen