New RoRo concept with wingsail option

Building on the Sleipner PCTC concept and operational data from their vessels Future Way and Way Forward, Wallenius Marine and Knud E. Hansen are now launching a new RoRo vessel design.

Wallenius Lines is a Swedish shipping company that partners with Alfa Laval in Oceanbird for developing rigid wing sails. Knud E. Hansen is a Danish-based company in naval architecture and consultancy.

Despite its compact length of 170 meters, the vessel offers a high cargo capacity of 2,720 lane meters – equivalent to 181 trailers. The Sleipner RoRo concept aims to enable fast and efficient loading and unloading via a full-width stern ramp and main deck, thanks to the forward placement of the engine room. Propulsion is provided by a dual-fuel electric drivetrain (LNG/LBG/MGO/Biodiesel) combined with Azipods – a gearless, 360° steerable propulsion system that enhances maneuverability and facilitates port operations in tight spaces.

The new concept has options for wing sails, shore power, and alternative energy sources such as batteries and fuel cells, further reducing energy consumption and emissions. Although the press release does not state the brand and model of the wing sails, images show the Oceanbird Wing.

“The RoRo segment in short-sea shipping plays a key role in the transition to more sustainable transport, especially by shifting cargo from land to sea. At the same time, the industry faces a generational shift, requiring new tonnage to meet capacity needs and stricter efficiency and emissions standards. Together with Knud E. Hansen, we’ve developed a concept that balances capacity, operational efficiency, and environmental performance”, says Urban Lishajko, Head of Ship Design at Wallenius Marine

With the launch of Sleipner RoRo, Wallenius Marine and Knud E. Hansen want to reinforce their position in the development of sustainable shipping.

“Our combined experience in operation, newbuilding, and design of various RoRo concepts allows us to build on proven solutions and create something new. Our strength lies in finding the best combination of design and technology for each vessel’s specific mission, with the goal of continuously reducing emissions and environmental impact”, adds Urban Lishajko.

Source: Wallenius press release, edited.

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