Hapag-Lloyd marked a major milestone today with the naming ceremony of the Wilhelmshaven Express at the Jade Weser Port in Wilhelmshaven. The event celebrated not only the christening of a state-of-the-art container vessel but also the completion of the company’s transformative three-year newbuild program.
A Milestone for Sustainability and Innovation
The Wilhelmshaven Express is the twelfth and final ship in Hapag-Lloyd’s Hamburg Express class a fleet of ultra-large container vessels designed to set new standards in sustainability and efficiency. With a capacity of 23,660 TEU and dual-fuel propulsion capable of operating on LNG and biomethane, the vessel represents a significant step forward in the company’s decarbonization strategy.
Strategic Role of Wilhelmshaven Port
The naming ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Olaf Lies, Minister-President of Lower Saxony, customers, partners, and media representatives. Wibke Friedrichs, wife of former Hapag-Lloyd COO Anthony Firmin, served as the ship’s naming patron.
Jansen also underscored the importance of the Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven, calling it “an essential hub for Hapag-Lloyd and the Gemini Cooperation.” He noted that its deep-water capabilities, efficient cargo handling, and strong trade connections to Asia and the Atlantic make it a key component in enhancing supply chain resilience across Northern Europe.
Fleet Expansion and Future Outlook
Built by Hanwha Ocean in South Korea, the Hamburg Express class represents one of Hapag-Lloyd’s largest investments, with $2 billion spent on 12 vessels, each measuring 399 meters in length. The ships are equipped with advanced technologies that reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 25% compared to conventional designs.
Looking ahead, Hapag-Lloyd plans to continue modernizing its fleet with 24 newbuilds between 2027 and 2029. These include twelve 16,800 TEU and twelve 9,200 TEU vessels, all fitted with low-emission dual-fuel engines capable of running on biomethane potentially cutting emissions by up to 95%.
The Wilhelmshaven Express marks the culmination of Hapag-Lloyd’s Hamburg Express program and the beginning of a new chapter in sustainable maritime transport. With its continued focus on innovation, operational excellence, and environmental responsibility, Hapag-Lloyd is steering confidently toward a greener, more resilient future.
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Source: Hapag-Llyod
