Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 26, Swedish shipping company Stena RoRo has announced a strategic investment in the development of a new fleet of battery-hybrid vessels designed for next-generation fuels. The company, known for its expertise in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and roll-on/roll-off passenger (RoPax) ships, signed a letter of intent (LoI) with China Merchant Industries Weihai for the construction of six RoRo cargo vessels under a 2+2+2 arrangement. Each vessel will have a capacity of between 3,000 and 4,700 lane meters.

In a statement, Stena RoRo described the agreement as a long-term investment aimed at strengthening its position in a market segment that has seen limited new development in recent years. “This LOI is a strategic investment for Stena RoRo in a segment which for a long time has been underinvested,” the company said. The project represents an important step in its efforts to advance sustainable shipping and prepare for the future transition to low-emission fuels.

The new ships will feature the company’s latest C-Flexer design, which evolves from Stena RoRo’s previous E-Flexer and NewMax concepts. The C-Flexer series combines a highly efficient hull form with engines capable of operating on next-generation fuels. The vessels will also incorporate an expandable battery-hybrid system, allowing for increased energy storage capacity as battery technology advances.

“These ships will be built for today and designed for tomorrow,” said Per Westling, CEO of Stena RoRo AB. He emphasized that the C-Flexer project reflects Stena’s long-term focus on innovation, flexibility, and environmental performance.

According to design specifications, the Stena C-Flexers will measure approximately 200 meters in length, with a beam of 28 or 31 meters, and will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 21 knots. The design aims to balance cargo efficiency, energy performance, and adaptability to future fuel technologies, including methanol, ammonia, and other sustainable alternatives.

In related developments, Stena RoRo recently completed the reconstruction of a 2002-built Stena Line vessel in July 2025. The project aimed to enhance the vessel’s operational capacity and energy efficiency. As part of the upgrade, the ship was fitted with a fourth vehicle deck, expanding its cargo space, and equipped with a shore power connection system, allowing it to operate on external electricity while docked. This addition is expected to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions during port stays.

Stena RoRo’s continued investment in advanced vessel designs and hybrid technologies demonstrates its commitment to sustainable growth in the global shipping industry. By integrating battery systems and engines ready for next-generation fuels, the company aims to ensure that its fleet remains adaptable to future environmental standards while maintaining high operational efficiency. The collaboration with China Merchant Industries Weihai also strengthens its presence in the Asian shipbuilding market, supporting Stena’s strategy of global cooperation and innovation-driven development.