“K” LINE Launches LNG-Fueled Car Carrier Tethys Highway

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) welcomed the delivery of Tethys Highway, a next-generation car carrier with a 6,900-vehicle capacity. Powered primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG), this vessel marks another major step toward the company’s environmental sustainability goals.

Green Technology and Emission Cuts

• Tethys Highway is fueled mainly by LNG.

• LNG reduces CO₂ emissions by 25–30% and sulfur oxides (SOx) by nearly 100%.

• Helps reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas impact compared to traditional heavy fuel oil vessels.

Part of “K” LINE’s Environmental Vision 2050

• Interim goal: 50% improvement in CO₂ efficiency by 2030 (surpassing IMO’s 40% target).

• 2050 goal: Net-zero GHG emissions.

• Strategy includes adoption of low-impact fuels like ammonia, hydrogen, bio-LNG, and synthetic fuels.

Vessel Details

• Name: Tethys Highway (named after a Greek sea goddess)

• Length: 199.96 meters | Beam: 38.00 meters | Gross tonnage: 75,259

• Speed: 19 knots

• Builder: Shin Kurushima Toyohashi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.

• Flag: Japan | Class: ClassNK

With the launch of Tethys Highway, “K” LINE reinforces its commitment to sustainable maritime operations. This LNG-fueled vessel reflects both technological advancement and a strong push toward decarbonizing the shipping industry.