X-Press Feeders has commissioned its first Neo-Panamax ships. The Singapore-based operator has ordered four 11,000 TEU methanol dual-fuelled vessels at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding in China. These newbuildings will be installed with scrubbers, windshields, and various energy-saving and drag-reduction solutions, to consume less fuel.
The order was made on 29 May, after X-Press Feeders took delivery of X-Press Pyxis, the last of a dozen 7,000 TEU ships at SWS.
The 11,000 TEU ships mark X-Press Feeders’ entry into the large-ship segment, although it is not known which routes these vessels will serve.
X-Press Feeders is counting on methanol to fulfill its decarbonisation goal and has engaged OCI Global, a Dutch producer and distributor of hydrogen-based products, to supply its vessels with green methanol. These vessels serve green methanol-powered feeder routes, namely between the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges.
Alphaliner’s report today noted that X-Press Feeders is championing methanol propulsion, and had recently taken delivery of its first green ship, the 1,170 TEU Eco Maestro.
On 27 May, Eco Maestro became the first to dock and refuel with green methanol in Singapore, illustrating the second-busiest port’s commitment to supporting the transition to renewable fuels.
Martina Li
Asia Correspondent
