Shipping companies and cargo owners must grapple with significant commercial consequences from new environmental regulations that will result in high costs for emissions and a potential transport capacity squeeze due to a lack of suitable green tonnage, a UECC-hosted webinar was told.

All industry minds are focused on these market-changing measures - mainly the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) being implemented this year and the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) set to be introduced for shipping from 2024 - that are set to have a far-reaching financial impact.

This was reflected by the high attendance of some 95 participants from major European OEMs at the online forum at which DNV’s Director Environment Maritime Eirik Nyhus and UECC’s Energy & Sustainability Manager Daniel Gent shed more light on the regulatory changes.

The EU ETS, due to be phased in from 1 January next year subject to final ratification, will initially require shipping companies operating in European waters to buy and surrender EU Allowances (EUAs) for 40% of their greenhouse gas emissions from the use of fossil fuels, rising to 70% in 2025 and 100% in 2026.

The price of these EUAs, or carbon credits, will be determined by supply and demand but the volume of allowances available in the market or at auction will be rapidly reduced by the EU under the cap-and-trade system to incentivise energy efficiencies and a switch to green fuels.

“Prices are set to increase beyond the current level of €80-90 per tonne of CO2 that we see today as industry demand for EUAs is unlikely to shrink at the same rate as allowances due to the slow pace of decarbonization. Fuel equivalent pricing will therefore increase significantly towards 2040,” Nyhus said.

Furthermore, while the first deadline for surrendering allowances falls in September 2025, emission costs will kick in immediately from implementation of the ETS on 1 January 2024 as shipping companies will need to purchase EUAs on a rolling basis in line with their emissions to settle contracts with other voyage stakeholders while trading, according to Nyhus.

This will necessitate proper commercial arrangements in the value chain for equitable sharing of emission costs among stakeholders to avoid exposure to carbon price volatility, Gent said, though he added the consumer should ultimately bear these costs under the ‘polluter pays’ principle.

There is some cost respite for shipowners as a further EU tax measure, the Energy Taxation Directive, to remove exemptions for bunkers sold in the EEA that was due to be introduced this year looks to have been shelved for the time being, primarily due to energy price inflation in Europe.

On the operational side, the CII rating system of A-E is geared to reducing the carbon intensity of international voyages through measures such as slow steaming.

But Gent highlighted: “If you slow down vessels, but the volume of cargo to be transported remains the same or increases, then this will require more vessels that will increase costs and drive up charter rates due to tighter supply.”

The shortage of tonnage could be exacerbated by taking vessels out of the market to be retrofitted to meet the minimum C rating required under CII or be decommissioned, he added.

"There will be a premium for green tonnage that can operate at high speeds and carry large volumes of cargo but still achieve an A, B or C rating. These will be in high demand because those vessels offer flexibility while still complying with the regulation,” Gent said.

Consequently, UECC has invested in five advanced green-powered newbuild PCTCs, as well as fuel optimisation technology and alternative fuels on other vessels, to ensure strong CII ratings for its fleet while also reducing its exposure to the ETS by cutting emissions, he added.

“It is important for transport buyers to understand where their providers stand on meeting future regulations and whether they can meet their contractual obligations over the coming years,” Gent said.

He revealed there has been high interest from UECC clients in the CII rating of its vessels in relation to their own KPIs, and added “this metric now has a direct financial cost”. The company is now inviting clients to participate in ETS workshops to explain the complexities of the new rules.

Bjorn O. Gran Svenningsen, Director Sales & Marketing, UECC

New environmental regulations are set to lead to higher costs for the shipping industry Photo: 123RF/zamollxis

Regulatory insight: UECC and DNV count the cost for shipping of new green regime

(1) UECC Interview Auto Achieve 2022 FINAL - YouTube

If you want to understand why this unique type of vessel represents a very important part of the total logistics chain within the shipping sector, then please watch the interviews with our shareholders, Godmother & partners, as given during the naming ceremony of our 3rd multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC AUTO ACHIEVE at Logent / The Port of Gothenburg

UECC Interview Auto Achieve

UECC has captured the Greenports 2022 award for the most eco-friendly vessel, Auto Energy, as well as for the most eco-friendly fleet in recognition of efforts by the leading European shortsea Ro-Ro carrier to cut emissions.

The 2016-built Auto Energy topped the ranking of green ships calling at the German ports of Bremen and Bremerhaven with an Environmental Ship Index (ESI) score of 50.1 points last year, enabling the dual-fuel LNG-driven PCTC to secure the award for the second time after also winning it in 2019.

Port management company Bremenports, which has handed out the Greenports award since 2014, this year paid particular attention to the level of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, given the need for performance improvements in this area.

The use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to fuel the Auto Energy’s propulsion system results in a reduction of around 95% in NOx emissions, along with minimal discharges of particulate matter and sulphur oxide (SOx).

Both the Auto Energy and sistership Auto Eco, which were the world’s first dual-fuel LNG PCTCs to be brought into operation when they entered the Baltic trade in 2017, also deliver a reduction of around 25% in CO2 emissions through the use of LNG.

The Auto Energy measures 181 metres long and 30 metres wide with capacity to carry up to 4000 cars.

UECC, jointly owned by NYK and Wallenius Lines, also picked up the Greenports award for the most eco-friendly fleet with an average ESI score of 47.9 points after taking delivery of a trio of pioneering newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTCs over the past year.

Built according to state-of-the-art energy efficiency criteria, these vessels exceed both regulatory requirements for emissions at sea and the IMO target for a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 compared with 2008 levels, while meeting the IMO’s Tier 3 NOx emissions limitations for the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

The trio - Auto Advance, Auto Achieve and Auto Aspire - are equipped with a shaft generator to charge batteries at sea so that they can run solely on battery power while in port to eliminate all harmful emissions, while they also have shore power connections.

In addition, the newbuilds are adaptable to run on lower-emission fuels such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as these become available in future. Two of these vessels, Auto Advance and Auto Achieve, have made calls at the port of Bremerhaven this year.

“This new generation of PCTCs are designed for enhanced sustainability in response to new environmental regulations and market demand - and are clearly already having a positive impact on the environment,” says UECC chief executive Glenn Edvardsen.

“The Greenports award is vindication of UECC’s ambitious efforts to cut emissions both through innovative development of green newbuilds and the use of alternative low-carbon fuels on its existing fleet.

“These accolades represent a significant honour considering the high number of vessels with an ESI score calling at these ports.”

The number of ships reporting an ESI score has risen to a total of 6896, after falling to around 4500 last year due to the introduction of a stricter limit for the sulphur content of marine, fuels, according to Bremenports.

The ESI, an international standard developed by the major North-West European ports as part of the World Port Climate Initiative, comprises the amalgamated scores for NOx, SOx and CO2 emissions. Additional points are awarded if the vessel has a shore power connection.

The ESI score is a figure between 0 and 100, where zero means that the vessel satisfies the IMO requirements and scores above zero mean the vessel outperforms these requirements.

Bremenports managing director Robert Howe said key criteria for the award were low emissions and regular calls at Bremen ports, as well as social considerations, “as we want the Greenports award to highlight good examples of sustainability in the shipping business”.

Consequently, this year’s award entailed for the first time confirmation from the International Transport Workers’ Federation that seafarers were paid in accordance with collective agreements.

[Photo caption #1:] Captain Rui Picarra (centre) receives the Greenports awards onboard the Auto Energy, with Bremenports representative Katja von Bargen (left) and Markus Schaeffer from Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean, UECC’s agent in Bremerhaven. Photo: Bremenports

[Photo caption #2:] The Auto Energy offloading vehicles at the port of Bremerhaven. Photo: Bremenports

Winning scores: Dual-fuel LNG PCTC Auto Energy tops ranking for second time as UECC gains Greenports double award

UECC has proudly unveiled its newbuild green-powered pure car and truck carrier Auto Achieve for clients and other guests with a high-profile naming ceremony at the Swedish port of Gothenburg accompanied by the popping of champagne corks and a fanfare of foghorns.

The Auto Achieve, delivered earlier this year from China’s Jiangnan Shipyard, is the final one of a trio of newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTCs to be named following a christening ceremony last month for sister vessels Auto Advance and Auto Aspire at the port of Zeebrugge in Belgium.

Among 160 attendees at the latest ceremony were UECC customers and staff, owners, suppliers, partners and port authorities, along with representatives of UECC’s owners NYK and Wallenius Lines. The vessel was officially named by appointed Godmother Tina Thörner, a three-times world champion co-driver in motor sports and a unique supporter of sustainable mobility.

The grand event was a fitting denouement to a long journey of technological innovation that started about five years ago when the unique vessel concept was given birth and subsequently developed with Jiangnan’s in-house design institute before the first newbuild orders in early 2019.

Speaking at the ceremony, UECC chief executive Glenn Edvardsen paid tribute to the "hard work, dedication and expertise” of the engineering team along with the entire workforce at Jiangnan Shipyard to realise the challenging project.

The yard had to contend with labour and logistical difficulties due to Covid-19 lockdowns and travel restrictions, which hit manpower capacity and led to supply chain disruption, but still managed to deliver the vessels within the schedule.

“Design and construction of these vessels represent a remarkable feat of engineering, teamwork and international co-operation, which enabled us to overcome not only technical but also logistical challenges to bring this newbuild project to fruition,” Edvardsen said.

The newbuild trio are the world’s first PCTCs with a battery hybrid solution combined with a multi-fuel engine that is designed initially to run on LNG - presently the most environmentally friendly fuel available - and is also adaptable for low-carbon fuels such as bio-LNG.

The unique configuration is complemented by a smart energy management system designed to optimize fuel efficiency and thereby minimize emissions.

Battery power on the new vessels will improve operational efficiency and further reduce emissions through peak shaving, while a shaft generator enables the vessel to recharge its batteries while at sea so it can run the bow thruster in/out of port solely on battery power.

The use of a battery hybrid solution will enable UECC to exceed the IMO target to reduce carbon intensity by 40% from 2008 levels within 2030.

Emissions of carbon dioxide will be reduced by around 25%, SOx and particulate matter by 90% and NOx by 85% from the use of LNG, while the newbuilds will also meet the IMO’s Tier 3 NOx emissions limitations for the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

The earlier delivered Auto Advance and the Auto Achieve - the second in the newbuild series - have already started trading in North European waters and the Auto Aspire will follow shortly.

Leading shortsea Ro-Ro carrier UECC has put sustainability at the top of its corporate agenda through developing new technological solutions as well as piloting the use of alternative fuels such as biofuel, according to Edvardsen.

“To achieve change, we have to boldly move forward with new ideas today that can solve the challenges of tomorrow,” Edvardsen said.

He characterised the climate crisis as “one of the biggest challenges facing mankind”, with shipping currently accounting over a tenth of CO2 emissions from transport and about 3% of total global emissions.

“The industry can be part of the climate solution by proactively adopting new green technology and low-carbon fuels to meet this challenge. Together we are demonstrating that change is possible by daring to be the difference,” he concluded.

[Photo caption:] Godmother Tina Thörner with the Auto Achieve’s Captain Marcin Grabowski. Photo: UECC

Crowning achievement: Auto Achieve is final newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC to be named for UECC

MOVIE : Film from the Naming Ceremony of Auto Advance in Zeebrugge 26.10.2022

UECC’s pioneering newbuild trio of multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTCs “will make a real difference for the environment and for business” as new green regulations are set to shift the market playing field, CEO Glenn Edvardsen said at the naming ceremony for flagship Auto Advance and its sistership Auto Aspire this week.

The two newbuilds were formally named by appointed Godmother Rosemary Lister, Head of Raw Material, Indirect and Supply Chain Purchasing at Toyota Motor Europe, at the October 26 ceremony in Zeebrugge attended by over 100 guests, who were also given a guided tour of the Auto Advance.

Attendees included UECC customers, owners, suppliers, partners and port authorities, as well as the Mayor of Bruges/Zeebrugge Dirk De fauw. Representatives from UECC’s owners NYK and Wallenius Lines, along with company staff, were also in attendance.

The christening of the Auto Advance was performed in traditional manner by Mrs. Lister with the cracking of a champagne bottle on the hull to a fanfare of vessel horns and a tugboat spraying water, while the Auto Aspire was named in a virtual ceremony.

The Auto Advance has already been trading in North European waters for the past year following delivery last November from China’s Jiangnan Shipyard.

Edvardsen told the audience that the shipping industry could only advance to make progress towards decarbonisation by deciding to move in a different direction. UECC’s owners and board of directors had done just that more than a decade ago by making bold investments in newbuilds and alternative low-carbon fuels to drastically reduce the company’s emissions profile, he said.

“By putting the environment at the top of its corporate agenda, UECC has taken industry leadership in response to the climate challenge. Growing market demands for green operations and new environmental regulations will radically change the way we do business in future,” he said.

The Auto Advance and its sisterships are the first vessels of their kind to be brought into operation, combining a multi-fuel LNG engine with a hybrid battery solution and smart energy management system in an innovative configuration designed for reduced fuel consumption and energy efficiency.

They have been developed by leading sustainable shortsea Ro-Ro carrier UECC together with Jiangnan’s in-house design institute, as well as Wallenius Marine and NYK, in what was described by Edvardsen as “a triumph of engineering, teamwork and international co-operation”.

“This could not have been achieved without the hard work, dedication and expertise of the entire workforce at Jiangnan Shipyard and the UECC design and site team that consisted of Wallenius Marine, NYK and UECC people, who had to overcome difficulties with lockdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic to keep construction of the vessels on track,” he said.

The deliveries of the three newbuilds over the past year have proven timely given the IMO’s CII and EEXI/EEDI regulations to cut the carbon intensity of both new and existing vessels are due to kick in from 1 January 2023.

All three PCTCs already exceed the IMO requirement for a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 that is the purpose of these regulations, according to Edvardsen.

Furthermore, the cost of running ships on conventional marine fuels in Europe is set to increase with the removal of a tax exemption on bunker suppliers in the EEA from next year under the Energy Taxation Directive.

Pollutive ships will also be increasingly penalised with the expected extension of the EU’s Emissions Trading System to shipping from 2024, which could add as much as 50% to the cost of fossil fuel consumption, based on recent carbon pricing, due to the need to buy emissions allowances, according to UECC.

Edvardsen believes these regulations will shift the market playing field in favour of environment-focused operators amid increasing demands from cargo owners and charterers for a more sustainable logistics chain.

He said LNG is currently the most environment-friendly fuel available, with an estimated reduction of 25% in CO2 emissions, and the PCTCs’ engine is also adaptable for future low-carbon fuels such as bio-LNG as these become available. "UECC has taken advantage of available low-carbon fuel technology to enhance the sustainability of its operations,” he said.

“With new IMO carbon intensity regulations just around the corner and the looming prospect of higher costs for using conventional marine fuel, we are convinced that our timely investments in these newbuilds will make a real difference for the environment and for business. That is called sustainability progress,” Edvardsen concluded.

 Captain Andrzej Wieckowski of the Auto Advance, the Godmother Rosemary Lister from Toyota Motor Europe and the master of the naming ceremony Bjorn O. Gran Svenningsen from UECC

Named for progress: world’s first multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC Auto Advance and sistership Auto Aspire christened at Zeebrugge ceremony

UECC has taken delivery of its third and final newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) as the company takes the lead in meeting new requirements for low-emission ship operations with the green transformation of its fleet.

The latest newbuild, to be named Auto Aspire, was delivered on 20 October at China’s Jiangnan Shipyard and will soon join sister vessels Auto Advance and Auto Achieve plying trade routes in Northern Europe after delivery of the pair from the fabrication yard over the past year.

“This significant delivery marks the realization of our ambition conceived a decade ago to bring to the European short sea market a new breed of advanced low-carbon vessels able to deliver on demands for energy efficiency under a green shipping regime,” says UECC’s CEO Glenn Edvardsen.

“This has been achieved through a process of innovation whereby a new technological solution has been developed together with Jiangnan’s in-house ship design team to give substantial gains in terms of emissions reductions.

“But, as the name of the third newbuild suggests, we still aspire to do even more.”

With delivery of the latest vessel, UECC now has five eco-friendly PCTCs out of its current fleet of nine owned vessels plus seven chartered units, with 80% of its current lifting capacity already meeting the IMO requirement for a 40% reduction in carbon intensity from shipping by 2030.

The leading shortsea Ro-Ro carrier has earlier pioneered the world’s first dual-fuel LNG PCTCs - Auto Eco and Auto Energy - and piloted the use of biofuels on another vessel, Auto Sky, with the aim of sourcing 80% of its annual fuel demand from alternative fuels by 2030.

“Imminent regulatory changes are shifting the market landscape in favour of green-focused players and these newbuilds represent timely and sizeable investments that offer our clients a sustainable shipping solution with both environmental and cost benefits,” adds Edvardsen.

Costs for shipowners using conventional marine fuels are set to rise with the implementation from 1 January 2023 of the Energy Tax Directive that will impose a hefty tax on fossil fuels supplied in the European Economic Area.

Furthermore, the proposed extension of the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) to shipping, set to take effect from 2024, will require pollutive ship operators to purchase costly carbon allowances that could increase the cost of consuming fossil fuels by as much as 50% based on current carbon pricing, according to UECC’s Energy & Sustainability Manager Daniel Gent.

In addition, new regulatory constraints on ship emissions are coming with the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), which takes effect from next year, and FuelEU Maritime, due to be introduced in 2025. Both measures will require a progressive reduction in carbon intensity from ship operations either from speed reduction or switching to alternative fuels.

Gent points out that UECC will be on course to achieve the proposed FuelEU Maritime target for 2030 of a 6% annual reduction in carbon intensity once the Auto Aspire is brought into operation. All three newbuilds are also in compliance with the IMO’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) that comes into force next year.

The newbuild trio are designed initially to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which can reduce emissions by around 25% compared with other fossil fuels, but will be able to use drop-in fuels with lower carbon intensity such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as these become more widely available.

The hybrid battery solution enables additional emissions reductions through peak shaving and the use of battery power to manoeuvre in ports, thereby eliminating harmful discharges of NOx and particulate matter near coastal cities.

The energy efficiency of the vessels is further enhanced by a smart energy management system that contributes to fuel savings, together with an optimised hull design and controllable pitch propeller.

The Auto Aspire, with a length of 169 metres, has capacity to carry 3600 vehicles on 10 cargo decks and, together with its sisterships, will "put sustainability firmly on the map” in the Ro-Ro trade of Northern Europe, according to Edvardsen.

“We are immensely proud to see all three newbuilds now on the water. With the support of our owners NYK and Wallenius Lines, UECC is turning the dream of environment-friendly shipping into reality,” he says.

 The Auto Aspire is the last in a series of three newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTCs delivered from China’s Jiangnan Shipyard. Photo: UECC

Hat-trick: delivery of final newbuild multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC transforms UECC fleet for green future

The beautiful M/V AUTO ACHIEVE arrived safely to her first European Port last week.

She is the 2nd in a series of 3 new multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid vessels built by UECC and we are proud to call her ours.

Check out this video which shows her in all her splendour.

Auto Achieve arrival to Europe

It would be an understatement to say that I was excited when I first learned that Auto Achieve would visit the River Humber on her maiden voyage. These days it is quite unusual to see a UECC vessel on 'my' river, especially one of pioneering multi fuel vessels that we at UECC have become synonymous with.


Living close to the landmark of Spurn Point at the mouth of estuary, I convinced myself that it would be a good idea to cycle to the Point so I could watch at close quarters as the Achieve sailed upriver.


Hitching up my son Barnaby to the back of the bike, I told him we were going on an adventure to see a cool ship (the poor boy, he really has no hope). 14km and 

 minutes later, it turns out cycling on a beach is no walk in the park, we settled down onto the sand to welcome Captain Henryk and his crew to the finest river in the kingdom.


Just as we sat down, the bow of the vessel came into view from behind the dunes. We quickly sent up our drone and set off in hot pursuit of the vessel as she sailed toward the Grimsby River Terminal.

As the vessel sailed beyond the drone's range, we packed up our belongings and made the journey back home. After a much-needed refuelling (it is my job after all), and with tired little legs fast asleep in bed, I set off to visit the vessel at the terminal (it's 12km as the crow flies, but a 160km round trip by road...)


Arriving to the vessel after 2100hrs, I was warmly welcomed by security guard Vitor and 3/off Bart, before reuniting with Capt Henryk and C/E Marcin who I had last seen at the UECC Gathering. After a cup of tea and a chat about the voyage, football, LNG and everything inbetween, I set off home for a well deserved sleep!


Thank you to the crew of Auto Achieve for making me so very welcome, and I hope it's not long until I can welcome you to my 'home' again!

Super Sunday with Auto Achieve


The Grimsby River Terminal (GRT) welcomed the first deep sea car carrier powered by a multi-fuel liquefied natural gas (LNG)/battery hybrid engine carrying a cargo of Kia vehicles.

Simon Bird, Regional Director for the Humber Ports said: “We are delighted that Kia have chosen the Port of Grimsby to bring this car carrier to. This is a great opportunity to see how sustainable vessels can be and LNG fuelled ones are growing in popularity. We expect to see more of them in our ports as operators look to lower their carbon footprint.”

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Ltd. commented “At Kia our vision is to become a truly sustainable, responsible and innovative mobility solutions leader, this is outlined in a clear and achievable strategy leading up to 2045 when we’ve committed to achieve carbon neutrality. Part of this plan focusses on collaboration with our supply chain partners to achieve lower emissions throughout our entire value chain. UECC’s MV Auto Achieve vessel is a great example of innovation to enhance emissions reduction and we’re proud to have our new electrified vehicles transported via one of the cleanest methods possible today.”

Read the full article here: 

https://www.abports.co.uk/news-and-media/latest-news/2022/grimsby-river-terminal-welcomes-the-first-sustainable-car-carrier/

Grimsby River Terminal welcomes the first sustainable car carrier

“AS A PORT WE ARE PROUD TO PLAY OUR PART IN CREATING A GREEN FUTURE FOR THE UK”

Peel Ports Group and UECC marked a historic moment as the first multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC in the history of the port docked at London Medway.

The arrival of the M/V Auto Advance Hybrid ship marked its first time in the UK, having arrived from Vigo, Spain with arrangements to discharge vehicles destined for customers throughout Britain.

LONDON MEDWAY FIRST UK PORT OF CALL FOR M/V AUTO ADVANCE HYBRID

Now that Auto Advance has made her maiden voyage from far east to Europe we spoke with the crew to find out their expectations and experience of the new vessel. Here is what they had to say about our lovely lady!

Ever since the news were spread out about new Battery Hybrid LNG propulsion ships being built for UECC we were anxious to be part of the future and be able to experience new technology.

Once we were designated to receive the ship in Europe and continue the great job carried out by our fellow teammates that brought the ship from Asia the anxiety and curiosity started to rise even more.

First impression when arriving to the ship is 

, beautifully painted in new “Green” theme 

 style, plenty new technology every section you go through, a real Advance into the future.

As we spend more time on board, the build quality improvement in the accommodation construction is noticeable which permits a better rest and better life quality on board, along with spacious bedrooms, living rooms, mess rooms and other living areas.

As expected, the “Holy grail” of the ship lies deep down on the ship, the Engine room. Most of the systems are very user-friendly and manageable with a touch or a click. Most of the machinery is working very quietly allowing our team to be healthier, happier, and not suffer so much with the daily fatigue caused by noise and vibrations. We are very surprised about the machinery quality. New technology implemented in engine room is on very good level. Engine room is not so big, but is well arranged, so it is easier for us to maintain daily routines. Gas plant is very intuitive and working well. We are specially surprised, as we were expecting to have some problems as usually are on the new buildings.

The most impressive part is the Hybrid side of this system. A very compact but powerful battery pack that allows us to work on the best performance range of the Auxiliary Engines and reduce Peak stress on Main Engine during hard sea voyages. This system is a great step forward allowing for safer and cleaner performance of the ship in general.

Still, plenty of new knowledge we need to assimilate, but time spent for training is worthy to be a part of the engine room team on this vessel.

It is great to experience the future and the company’s effort to be a step ahead of the market, we are looking forward for the next sister ships to sail along.

Interview by Engine room team (Relievers in Europe)

Maiden voyage: From far east to Europe - our story

Great article from Drammen Port on our very own Auto Advance - the worlds most environmentally friendly car carrier. 

The worlds most environmentally friendly car carrier

With new technology to reduce carbon intensity already implemented, what will be the next step for UECC on the path to a greener future? In this video, DNV applauds the achievements of UECC, and CEO Glenn Edvardsen announces his predictions for the future of the era of fossil fuels

UECC Future Fuels video

Whereas yesterday’s ship builders focused strongly on maximising speed, striving for perfection means something quite different in today’s vessel design. The big question nowadays is how to minimise emissions when travelling from A to B, and this is where UECC aims to be a front-runner.

UECC Technology Video

UECC has celebrated the New Year in fitting style with the launch of the third and final newbuild in a series of advanced dual-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTCs that are being rolled out in rapid succession at China’s Jiangnan Shipyard.

The landmark launch of hull number H2665 on 28 December comes only seven months after the keel-laying ceremony for the vessel and follows the recent final delivery of the first newbuild named Auto Advance, with the second and third vessels set to be delivered in the first half of this year.

“We are rapidly building up our low-emission fleet to become the leading eco-friendly shortsea carrier in Europe through the addition of these newbuilds that will, alongside the use of alternative fuels on our existing vessels, drastically reduce UECC’s environmental footprint,” says chief executive Glenn Edvardsen.

He also paid tribute to the “monumental efforts” of Jiangnan Shipyard in overcoming logistical supply chain and manpower capacity obstacles caused largely by the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure the newbuilding programme remains on schedule with the latest vessel launch.

“The first of these ground-breaking newbuilds is already in commercial operation and UECC’s ambition to take our fleet to the next level of environmental performance by mid-2022 remains firmly on track thanks to the yard’s adaptability, expertise and productivity,” Edvardsen adds.

The second of the newbuilds is now in the final stages of construction after being launched at the yard last summer and, when all three are delivered, UECC will have a total of five eco-friendly PCTCs out of its owned fleet of nine vessels - also including two dual-fuel LNG units that have been in operation for the past five years.

The innovative use of battery hybrid technology, combined with a dual-fuel solution, on the latest newbuilds will enable these vessels to exceed the IMO’s goal to cut carbon intensity by 40% within 2030 compared with 2008 levels.

As well as pioneering the use of this advanced technological solution together with Jiangnan, UECC has experimented with low-carbon fuels such as biofuel on its existing PCTC Autosky that has resulted in a 58% reduction in carbon intensity over a 12-month period.

The European shortsea ro-ro carrier is also looking to extend the use of the fuel to other vessels based on possible trial cargoes backed by customers, according to energy and sustainability manager Daniel Gent.

With the addition of the newbuilds, UECC will have 80% of its total lifting capacity meeting or exceeding the IMO target already this year as it aims to achieve an annual cut of 34,500 tonnes in CO2 emissions by 2025, compared with 18,700 tonnes in 2020 and 277 tonnes in 2016.

“We are taking advantage of available dual-fuel and hybrid technology with these newbuilds while proactively adopting existing low-carbon fuels on our operational vessels to make a difference for the environment right now,” Edvardsen says.

“With the likely implementation of the EU’s Emissions Trading System for shipping from 2023, we believe these efforts will also represent a competitive advantage for UECC going forward amid increasing demands from customers, regulators and financial institutions for green operations.”

UECC’s third newbuild dual-fuel battery hybrid PCTC set to be launched onto the water at Jiangnan Shipyard in China Photo: Jiangnan Shipyard

Jiangnan Shipyard personnel at the offical launch ceremony for UECC’s third newbuild dual-fuel battery hybrid PCTC Photo: Jiangnan Shipyard

Launch party: third newbuild dual-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC makes New Year splash

's Auto Advance has been named as one of the great ships of 2021 by 

. 🚢💚🌲

Read the full article here: 

https://magazines.marinelink.com/nwm/MaritimeReporter/202112/

Auto Advance has been named as one of the great ships of 2021

The present high level of greenhouse gas emissions from shipping needs to be reversed. Everyone working onboard ships - from the bridge to the engine room - can make a difference for the environment. And that change can happen now.

The shipping industry emits nearly 1 billion tonnes of CO2 annually, which accounts for 3% of global emissions of about 35 billion tonnes per year, but this could rise to 10% by 2050 if the sector fails to cut pollution while other sectors decarbonise.

UECC took the lead in decarbonisation of shipping five years ago with the launch of the world’s first dual-fuel PCTCs, the Auto Eco and Auto Energy, able to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) that can reduce emissions by around 25% compared with other fossil fuels.

I am proud to serve as captain of the Auto Eco at the cutting edge of emissions reduction on a ro-ro car carrier that already exceeds the IMO’s requirement to cut carbon intensity by 40% within 2030. The vessel, which trades on shortsea routes in northern Europe, is able to complete a 14-day round trip solely on LNG without refuelling, including main engine and auxiliary power generation, which is quite impressive.

But for myself and the rest of the crew onboard, that is not enough. Alternative fuels and abatement technologies are one thing, but we know there is much potential for additional emissions cuts through proactive practical measures that can be taken during the voyage - and it is part of my job to raise awareness of that among the crew.

It starts with understanding the whole process of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as their after-effects. We need to know where these emissions come from and what can be done to reduce them, both in the short and long term, in order to optimise environmental efficiency.

Every tonne of any fuel that we are using to transport goods has a particular volume of energy that has accumulated over millions of years. In the last few centuries, mankind has discovered and developed the tools and devices needed to extract the stored energy and transfer it to movement, heat, power etc.

The extracted energy propels the vessel on her voyages with cargo and it is our job to utilize it in the most effective manner. Virtually the same amount of energy will be used to move the vessel from port A to port B, regardless of whether the vessel is loaded at 100% or, for example, 85% of its cargo capacity. Therefore, one of the ways to optimise the use of fuel energy is to maximise the cargo intake through effective booking, planning and loading.

The Auto Eco, measuring 181 metres in length with a 30-metre beam, has capacity for 3800 standard-sized cars spread over 10 decks, while it also carries heavy breakbulk cargoes. The vessel, with 1A super Finnish/Swedish ice class, is able to trade year-round in the ice-prone Baltic Sea on its route that includes the ports of Southampton, Zeebrugge, Bremerhaven and St Petersburg.

Another important area for emissions reduction is knowledge of the motion characteristics and hydrodynamics of the vessel. Adjusting the vessel’s trim, which is how the disposition of cargo impacts hull hydrodynamics, can reduce fuel consumption by up to 6%.

More fuel is required to navigate strong currents, heavy wave forces and high winds so meticulous voyage planning that takes account of prevailing weather and sea conditions is a vital factor in optimising fuel usage. Close and constant monitoring of these environmental conditions enables us to use the currents and winds in our favour to cut voyage duration.

This also entails planning departures and arrivals at the proper time according to tides and currents. Consequently, we are always thinking ahead and cooperating with national trade departments to determine the optimal vessel schedule, which can mean switching ports due to weather to avoid the need for assistance from tugs that also emit greenhouse gases. It is also best to avoid shallow waters as these have higher water resistance that has a negative effect on the vessel’s speed.

In the engine room, proper, professional and proactive maintenance of critical machinery used to drive the ship can have a big impact on performance. These systems need to be kept running efficiently by the crew, which means monitoring and adjusting the main engine along with other system parameters, as well as switching off unnecessary energy consumers.

Curbing emissions as much as possible while in port can be achieved by stopping the main engine and auxiliaries immediately after the vessel is safely moored - or when using locks at Zeebrugge and Bremerhaven - and only starting them just before departure.

Smaller measures can also make a difference to energy consumption, such as turning off unnecessary ventilation fans for the car decks during cargo operations when these are not presently loaded or discharged. Similarly, eliminating the use of unnecessary heaters, lighting and TVs etc can mean that only a small auxiliary generator, rather than a large one, can be used.

It may seem trivial, but even boiling a kettle with only the water needed for a single cup of tea can have an effect as such practices can collectively contribute to energy savings. Some countermeasures may be quite simple while others are more complex and require a lot of effort. 

The key factor is education, awareness and having the right attitude among the crew to become energy-conscious in order to apply the correct levers to cut emissions through collective teamwork.

It is interesting to note that a study by research firm CE Delft showed that such measures to change operational practices will be necessary to meet the 2030 carbon-intensity target, alongside technical measures. This proves that our efforts are not in vain: making adjustments to cargo planning to change the trim without using ballast or spending an extra hour to adjust the route to save a couple of miles and 50 litres of fuel are worth it.

We have been doing this onboard the Auto Eco for some years now in order to better utilise the energy stored in fuel and thereby gained knowledge through experience to see that even the smallest actions can ultimately have a big impact on emissions.

By Tomasz Sulima, Captain of the PCTC Auto Eco

Captain Sustainable: A view from the bridge 

Will UECC’s investments in sustainable solutions turn out profitable? Energy and Sustainability Manager Daniel Gent calls for stronger support from the company’s customers, and he also pleads with regulators to set stricter laws against use of dirty fuels.

UECC Sustainable video

UECC INFRONT 2021 Sustainable video

UECC’s brand new dual fuel LNG battery hybrid pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), to be named Auto Advance, had the first commercial port call ever at the port of Nagoya in Japan from the 2nd to the 3rd of December, following the delivery of the vessel to UECC from the shipyard on the 26th of November 2021. The vessel loaded Japanese OEM products for several European ports. 

The vessels Master, Captain Henryk Laskowski, also had the pleasure of receiving visitor from NYK Tokyo, who owns UECC jointly with Wallenius Lines, during the port call in Nagoya. During the visit, a model of the Auto Advance was presented to the visitors from NYK Tokyo.

Auto Advance - First commercial port call ever; Nagoya, Japan 02-03.12.2021

The first delivery ever of LNG by barge to the M/V Auto Advance too place on the 12th December at Pasir Gudang, Malaysia.

The supply was performed by LNG Bunker Vessel Avenue Advantage and is the culmination of meticulous planning and compatibility assessments by technical teams on both sides. 

First delivery of LNG by barge to Auto Advance

Investing in three state of the art dual fuel LNG battery hybrid vessels secures UECC's position. The company is determined to go beyond new regulations on their journey toward zero emissions, and the hope is that the customers will join in. Why? Because sustainability is in UECC's DNA.

UECC INFRONT 2021 Story

UECC has made big strides in cutting the carbon intensity of its vessels by taking a proactive approach to fleet renewal and experimenting with alternative fuels - but still sees a lack of market understanding of the long-term value of green logistics.

Money still talks loudest in the shipping industry and unfortunately the freight rate remains the overriding factor for many of the car manufacturers when selecting a cargo carrier, regardless of the environmental footprint of the logistics solutions.

The European shortsea ro-ro car carrier has led the way in sustainable fleet operations after bringing onto the water the world’s first dual-fuel LNG pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) five years ago and is now reaping the fruits of its efforts in significantly reduced emissions.

These two vessels, Auto Eco and Auto Energy, are already compliant with the IMO’s goal to cut carbon intensity from shipping by 40% within 2030 due to significant reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions, and effective elimination of sulphur oxide and particulate emissions.

The company has now been listed as a finalist for the 2021 Heavy Lift Environment Award, with winners to be announced in London next month.

By 2022, UECC will have 80% of its total lifting capacity meeting or exceeding the IMO target with delivery of three newbuild LNG battery hybrid PCTCs - the first of which is set to be delivered next month - to give it five eco-friendly ships out of a nine-vessel owned fleet, with an additional 10 chartered vessels.

UECC was a first-mover in building dual-fuel LNG car carriers when it ordered the pair in 2014 and LNG-fuelled vessels today mostly account for nearly 12% of all newbuild orders, up from 6% in 2019, according to DNV.

“We never saw this as a risk but rather a great opportunity to make a difference and reduce GHG emissions,” Edvardsen says.

UECC’s parent companies NYK and Wallenius Lines have also participated in pioneering the dual-fuel LNG solution with a series of similar LNG newbuild orders.

DNV sees LNG as the fuel of choice for newbuilds in the near term as it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 25% and is widely available through an existing bunkering network, while it can be switched out with future drop-in fuels such as bio-LNG and e-LNG with even lower emissions.

Edvardsen says the trio of hybrid newbuilds will give “a big leap” in environmental performance due to an advanced energy management system to achieve fuel savings through peak shaving, as well as a more optimised hull design, for further emissions cuts.

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