The new ro-ro design, which includes an engine room in the bow, creates (despite its length of 170 metres) a large cargo capacity of 2,720 lanemetres, equivalent to 181 trailers. The Sleipner RoRo concept means that loading and unloading can be carried out quickly and efficiently via the stern ramp and main deck across the full width of the ship, as the engine room has been relocated to the bow.

Propulsion is provided by a dual fuel electric powertrain (LNG/LBG/MGO/Biodiesel) and Azipods, a gearless 360° steerable propulsion system, which provides good manoeuvrability and speeds up and facilitates approaches in crowded ports. The concept is future-proofed with provisions for wing sails, shore power and alternative fuel sources such as batteries and fuel cells, which can further reduce energy consumption and emissions.

"The ro-ro segment of shortsea shipping plays a key role in the transition to more sustainable transport, not least through the transfer of goods from land to sea transport. At the same time, the industry is facing a generational change where new tonnage is needed to meet both capacity needs and demands for increased energy efficiency and reduced emissions. Together with Knud E. Hansen, we have developed a concept that balances capacity, operational efficiency and environmental performance," says Urban Lishajko, Head of Ship Design at Wallenius Marine.

With the new Sleipner RoRo concept, Wallenius Marine and Knud E. Hansen are strengthening their role as driving forces in the development of truly sustainable shipping. "With our combined experience and knowledge from the operation, newbuilding and design of various ro-ro ship concepts, we can take advantage of solutions that have worked well for other ships and develop something new. Our strength lies in finding the best combination of design and technology for each ship's specific mission, with the aim of continuously reducing emissions and other environmental impacts," says Urban Lishajko.

FUTURE WAY was awarded a Shippax Award in 2024 Shippax Award 2024 | Shippax

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Sleipner RoRo can be delivered with or without wing sails, depending on operational needs.