- TSUNEISHI Shipbuilding delivered the world’s first methanol dual-fuelled bulk carrier, the TESS66 AEROLINE, with a 65,700 dwt capacity, on 13 May 2025.
- The vessel achieves significant emission reductions, including up to 80% NOx, 99% SOx, and 10% CO₂, with further benefits when using green methanol.
- This innovation reflects TSUNEISHI’s commitment to sustainable shipbuilding, setting a new standard in the Ultramax class.
On 13 May 2025, TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Co., Ltd. (Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Japan) announced the successful delivery of the world’s first methanol dual-fuelled bulk carrier in the 65,700 dwt class—TESS66 AEROLINE—from its TSUNEISHI Factory. The vessel preserves the hallmark fuel efficiency and high cargo capacity of the TESS66 series while introducing methanol fuel capability for reduced environmental impact.
Breakthrough in Methanol Dual-Fuel Technology
The TESS66 leverages methanol to achieve substantial reductions in emissions:
- Up to 80% less nitrogen oxides (NOx)
- Up to 99% less sulfur oxides (SOx)
- Around 10% lower carbon dioxide (CO₂) compared to conventional heavy fuel oil
When operating on green methanol—produced from CO₂ captured from the atmosphere and hydrogen generated via renewable energy—the vessel aligns with carbon-neutral shipping goals, significantly lowering its lifecycle emissions.
Optimized Design and Performance
With a deadweight of 65,700 metric tons and a cargo hold capacity of 81,500 m³, the vessel maintains the superior loading performance typical of the TESS66 series. The methanol fuel tank is positioned strategically to enhance safety and maintain efficient cargo operations. Additionally, the ship features a fuel-efficient main engine and TSUNEISHI’s proprietary AEROLINE hull form, which reduces wind resistance and further improves fuel efficiency.
Visionary Leadership and Future Expansion
Mr. OKUMURA Sachio, President of TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING, expressed pride in this milestone achievement, stating:
“The delivery of the world’s first methanol dual-fuelled bulk carrier marks a significant step toward realizing our vision of sustainable shipbuilding. We are grateful to our partners, customers, and dedicated employees whose efforts made this possible. This is just the beginning—we plan to continue producing methanol-fuelled vessels at our overseas facilities and push forward with technological innovation to support a greener maritime future.”
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Source: TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING
