CMD Out of the Blocks

CSSC-MES Diesel Co. Ltd. (CMD), the newly established engine manufacturer, has filled its order books in record time with orders for a striking 61 large-bore, low-speed diesel engines. With the first engine due for delivery by the end of October 2007, this places CMD fifth on the list of MAN Diesel’s 17 two-stroke licensees in terms of orders. As the first engine producer operating in China, CMD will produce 98-cm bore engines, initially manufacturing eight MAN B&W 8K98MC engines. The engines are bound for Jiangnan shipyard for use aboard ships operated by COSCO, the Chinese, state-owned shipping company. The CMD order comprises an additional, extensive series of 80- and 90-cm bore engines destined for large containerships and VLCCs.