LDA launches second wind-assisted methanol dual-fuel RoRo vessel

French maritime company Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) has launched its second of three, methanol dual-fuel roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels, incorporating wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS).

IMAGE: Louis Dreyfus Armateurs’ RoRo vessel Spirit of Mobile. LDA

The RoRo vessel, Spirit of Mobile, was constructed at Wuchang Shipyard a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, LDA said.

The vessel will be equipped with six 35-metre rotor sails supplied by Finnish cleantech company Norsepower. It will also feature two dual-fuel engines capable of operating on methanol or conventional fuel.

LDA launched the first in the series – Spirit of Toulouse – earlier in February. The third vessel, Spirit of Mirabel, is under construction, the company said earlier.

“In parallel, Spirit of Toulouse will soon be fitted with its rotor sails,” the shipping company said.

WAPS, like rotor sails, have been gaining popularity among shipowners as they look for technologies that can boost vessel performance, reduce fuel use, and enhance sustainability.

All three ships have been chartered to European commercial aircraft manufacturer Airbus.

LDA already operates two vessels for Airbus on the transatlantic route with capacity to transport up to six aircrafts. The new vessels will match this cargo capacity.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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