Ocean Network Express (ONE) has agreed with Shoei Kisen Kaisha for the 15-year long-term charter of six new Ultra Large Container Ships (ULCS) with a capacity greater than 24,000TEU each, the world's largest class ever.
The newbuildings are planned to be built by the consortium of Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Japan Marine United Corporation and their delivery is expected in 2023/2024.
"This new class of ships will join our core fleet and forms part of our ongoing strategy to introduce large, modern, and fuel-efficient vessels to further strengthen our fleet competitiveness," said ONE in its statement.
The six new ULCS will help bring economies of scale and significantly decrease carbon emissions through a hull design that aims to maximise cargo intake and minimise fuel consumption, according to the Singaporean line.
The vessels will be equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems to meet the emissions regulations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
"This initiative represents ONE’s ongoing efforts to offer more competitive and best-in-class services to our customers through the introduction of ULCS that have a decreased environmental impact," added the company.
