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Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK Line) has said that four vessels scheduled to be built in Japan will be fitted with fuel-saving technology.

The shipping line said it has decided to build four next-generation PCTCs (Pure Car and Truck Carriers). Two of the vessels will be built by Imabari Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. at its factory in Marugame city, Kagawa prefecture. Technical assistance will be provided by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. The other two vessels will be built by Shin Kurushima Dockyard Co. Ltd. at its Onishi Shipyard in Ehime prefecture. All four vessels are scheduled to be completed between 2014 and 2015.

NYK said it expects worldwide demand for PCTC transport to steadily expand, adding that the four new vessels will be capable of transiting the Panama Canal when the third lane of locks - larger than the current two - becomes operational in the autumn of 2014.

According to NYK, the new ships will be 2–3 metres wider than current PCTCs and will be equipped with the latest energy-saving technology, improving fuel performance by approximately 30 percent per unit.

"NYK will continue its effort to offer advanced vessels to customers by working positively to develop new designs, improve quality, and emphasize environmental consciousness," the company said.

Vessel Particulars

Length Overall: Less than 200 metres
Breadth: 35–36 metres
Total Car Capacity: About 7,000 units
Ramp Capacity: Stern ramp, 150 tonnes; Center ramp, 20 tonnes

Image: NYK Altair