German short-sea specialist Vega Reederei has placed an order for a series of ten diesel-electric multi-purpose cargo vessels.. The vessels will be built by Sinomach Group to a design developed by Conoship International of Groningen.
The order will allow the Hamburg-based shipowner to operate a fully modernised fleet once the newbuildings are delivered. The order will permit Vega to replace its current fleet, which is ageing. The first delivery will occur as early as August 2024, and the deliveries will conclude in May 2025.
Vega has specified that the 3,800 dwt newbuildings are designed with future environmental regulations in mind. the vessels can also be easily upgraded to full-electric by replacing three main engines with green power sources, such as hydrogen fuel cells. The design also provides the possibility of integrating wind-assisted propulsion units.
The vessels are designed to meet and surpass environmental standards required in today’s maritime industry. The focus on environmental efficiency is also evident in the optimised hull lines and the propulsion solutions: the large diameter propeller will help to maximise operational efficiency.
