The 3100-TEU vessels are expected to be the largest ships of any kind in the world powered primarily by LNG. Both ships will feature dual-fuel LNG engines that greatly surpass the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s clean air regulations. CO2 emissions will be 71% less than current vessels in the Puerto Rican trade, particulate matter will be reduced by 99%, sulfur oxides by 98%, and nitrogen oxides by 91%.
The first two 764-ft.-long containerships will be delivered and enter service between Jacksonville, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico in 2015 and 2016, and their construction is expected to sustain 600 shipyard jobs in Southern California, where General Dynamics NASSCO is located.
The ship design accommodates five times more 53-foot containers than current ships in Puerto Rico and will allow for the transport of everything from cars to corn syrup. The ships will include expanded volumes for refrigeration equipment, critical to ensure that pharmaceuticals, produce and other foodstuffs vital to the residents of Puerto Rico are delivered in the best possible condition.
Source: TOTE
