Italian shipping company Grimaldi Group officially took delivery of its new Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), Grande Auckland, in Shanghai, China. The vessel was built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding and China Shipbuilding Trading.
Grande Auckland is the second vessel in a series of seven ordered by Grimaldi. Flying the Italian flag, the ship has a capacity of 9,241 CEU across four decks. The decks can accommodate large units of up to 250 tons with a height clearance of 6.5 metres, making the vessel suitable for both electric and traditional fuel-powered vehicles, as well as other rolling cargo.
The 200-metre-long ship carries the “Ammonia Ready” notation from RINA, allowing for a future conversion to ammonia fuel. It is also equipped with shore power capability, enabling connection to local grids while in port. According to Grimaldi, the vessel’s design reduces CO₂ emissions per unit of cargo by up to 50% compared to previous-generation PCTCs.
The vessel is scheduled to operate on the Asia–Europe route in 2025. Its maiden voyage will start from Shanghai and Lianyungang, transporting 4,900 vehicles and 3,300 linear metres of rolling cargo, with planned calls in Morocco, Spain, Belgium, and the United Kingdom before returning to Asia via Réunion, Japan, and South Korea.
Photo: Grimaldi Group
