The new tankers that will soon be launched in Japan will be the first ammonia-powered car carriers. Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) and Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) will each design and build two of these tankers in collaboration with Japanese shipbuilders Imabari Shipbuilding, Shin Kurushima Dockyard, and Nihon Shipyard, which are set to be launched by ٢٠٣٠.
Technical specifications of the tankers
These tankers will be equipped with dual-fuel engines and will have sufficient capacity to carry ammonia, allowing them to undertake trans-Pacific voyages without the need to switch fuels. These vessels are expected to transport vehicles for customers such as Toyota.
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Creating a green ammonia supply chain
This project also includes collaboration between energy company JERA and shipbuilding plant Kyokuyo to create a green ammonia supply chain in the Chubu region of Japan. JERA intends to source green ammonia from renewable energy projects, which will likely include resources from India, and will also develop loading infrastructure at its Hekinan terminal.
The partners in this project describe this initiative as the world's first integrated commercial marine ammonia fuel supply chain, encompassing supply, fueling infrastructure, and vessel operations.
Safety and prevention of ammonia leaks
The new ships will be equipped with multiple layers of protection against ammonia leaks, including detection and neutralization systems. These measures are particularly necessary given the toxic and corrosive nature of ammonia. This announcement follows the first marine ammonia refueling operation conducted by NYK on an ammonia fuel ship in September ٢٠٢٣.
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