On July 1st, Imabari Shipbuilding marked another step forward in sustainable shipping, delivering a new vessel named ANGELITE ACE. Built by Tadotsu Shipyard Co., Ltd., the new ship is a cutting-edge LNG-fueled car carrier with the capacity to transport approximately 7.000 vehicles.
Designed with efficiency and the environment in mind, the ANGELITE ACE significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to conventional fuel-powered ships, the vessel cuts CO₂ emissions by 25–30%, slashes NOₓ emissions by 80–90%, and eliminates almost all SOₓ emissions thanks to its advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.
The ship also incorporates a smart approach to LNG fuel usage. As LNG evaporates, it produces boil-off gas (BOG), which can often go to waste. Onboard systems aboard the ANGELITE ACE recover this gas for use in generators and boilers, enhancing energy efficiency and minimizing fuel loss.
From a design perspective, the vessel improves cargo handling and crew safety through a bulkheadless hold structure and wider, more intuitively arranged ramps. These features help streamline vehicle movement and reduce the risk of accidents during loading and unloading.
Additionally, the ship features liftable decks, enabling it to accommodate not just standard passenger cars but also taller vehicles like trucks and trailers.
The ANGELITE ACE measures 199.93 meters in overall length, with a breadth of 38.0 meters and a depth of 38.76 meters. It has a deadweight capacity of 18,473 tons and a gross tonnage of 77,695.
The vessel is powered by a 6S60ME-C10.5-GI main engine, allowing it to cruise at a service speed of approximately 18 knots. It sails under the flag of Liberia and is classed by Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK).
