Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 9, Italy’s Grimaldi Group celebrated the delivery and naming of its second ammonia-ready pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), Grande Tianjin, at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS), a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). The event also marked the delivery of the 600th vessel constructed by SWS.

Grande Tianjin, with a capacity of 9,000 car equivalent units (CEU), is set to embark on its maiden voyage on August 19, transporting vehicles from the Chinese electric vehicle brand Leapmotor to Europe. The vessel features advanced technologies, including a fuel-efficient main engine, energy-saving devices such as a twisted rudder and rudder bulb with fins, and a medium-voltage shore power system that allows zero-emission operations while docked.

The ship has earned the Ammonia Ready class notation from RINA, indicating its potential for conversion to use ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel alternative. This aligns with Grimaldi Group’s commitment to sustainable maritime transport.

“The delivery of Grande Tianjin represents a significant step in our fleet modernization and sustainability efforts,” said a Grimaldi Group spokesperson. “Its advanced design supports our goal of reducing environmental impact while meeting global vehicle transport demands.”

Grande Tianjin is the second of ten next-generation PCTCs ordered by Grimaldi Group with RINA’s Ammonia Ready notation. The first five vessels, including Grande Tianjin, have a 9,000 CEU capacity, while the subsequent five will feature an increased capacity of 9,800 CEU. The series’ first ship, Grande Shanghai, was named on July 21 in Haimen, China.

The construction of Grande Tianjin at SWS highlights the collaboration between Grimaldi Group and CSSC in advancing eco-friendly shipping solutions. The vessel’s design prioritizes energy efficiency and adaptability to alternative fuels, supporting the global transition to cleaner maritime operations.