The Grimaldi Group has added the Grande Svezia to its fleet, marking the fourth “Ammonia Ready” vessel in the company’s growing portfolio of environmentally advanced ships.
The 9,000-CEU (Car Equivalent Units) Pure Car & Truck Carrier (PCTC) is the second in a series of ten next-generation vessels under construction at China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu.
Measuring 220 metres in length with a gross tonnage of 91,611 tonnes, the Grande Svezia is designed to transport both electric and combustion-engine vehicles across its 14 decks. The vessel incorporates a range of green technologies, including future readiness for ammonia conversion as a carbon-free alternative fuel.
“With the arrival of the Grande Svezia, we further consolidate our role as a leader in sustainable maritime transport,” said Emanuele Grimaldi, Managing Director of Grimaldi Group.
“This investment reflects our commitment to supporting the global automotive industry with vessels that are ever more advanced, efficient, and with a reduced environmental footprint.”
During port calls, the vessel can achieve zero emissions through its 5 MWh lithium battery system and cold ironing capability, which allows it to draw shore power where available. It is also fitted with energy-efficiency features such as 2,500 square metres of solar panels, silicone-based hull coatings, and intelligent ventilation and climate-control systems.
The Grande Svezia is the first PCTC vessel to feature an innovative “gate rudder”, comprising two foil-shaped blades positioned alongside the propeller to improve propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability. Compared with earlier-generation car carriers, the vessel achieves up to 50% lower fuel consumption.
The Grande Svezia follows the delivery of the Grande Auckland earlier this month, which carries similar environmental credentials including Ammonia Ready class notation. Both ships are part of Grimaldi’s significant investment in sustainable shipping, with a further 14 Ammonia Ready PCTC vessels scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2027.
In the coming days, the Grande Svezia will embark on her maiden voyage on the East Asia–Persian Gulf service, transporting 3,100 vehicles and 5,800 linear metres of rolling cargo from Chinese ports to Gulf markets.
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