Five 18,400 TEU Containerships to be Classed by GL

Germanischer Lloyd (GL) has signed a classification agreement with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for the construction of five 18,400 TEU containerships. The so far largest container vessels are ordered by China Shipping Container Lines (CSCL).

CSCL expects that the combined efforts with HHI and GL lead to the most state-of-the-art containerships that will strengthen their international competitiveness and global service network. Besides its size, the new type of containership is unique in its environmental performance with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. According to HHI, fuel consumption will be cut by 20-30% per unit and thereby lower its unit cost considerably.

Each of these mega containerships measures 400 meters overall in length and 58.6 meters in width. They will be built according to GL's rules for classification and construction. Delivery is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2014.

The vessels are equipped with the GL class notation RSCS (Route Specific Container Stowage). RSCS was recently introduced to provide an even more efficient usage of cargo capacity with more flexibility and more laden containers on board on specific routes without compromising on safety.

With the class notation EP-D (Environmental Passport Design) the vessels are prepared for upcoming regulations at an early stage. EP-D is a compilation of relevant ship characteristics for meeting national and international environmental standards.