Ocean Network Express (ONE) has announced a Letter of Intent for long-term charter of world’s largest Ultra Large Container Ships

The new buildings are planned to be built by the consortium of Imabari Shipbuilding and Japan Marine United Corporation, and ONE expects to take delivery in 2023/2024.

Said a ONE spokesperson: “This new class of ships will join our core fleet and forms part of our ongoing strategy to introduce large, modern, and fuel-efficient vessels to further strengthen our fleet competitiveness.”

Currently, the world’s largest ULCS have a maximum capacity of slightly below 24,000 TEU.

The six new ULCS with capacity exceeding 24,000 TEU will help bring economies of scale and significantly lower carbon emissions through a state-of-the-art hull design that aims to maximize cargo intake and minimize fuel consumption.

The vessels will be equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems to meet the emissions regulations of IMO.

Added the spokesperson: “This initiative represents ONE’s ongoing efforts to offer more competitive and best-in-class services to our customers through the introduction of ULCS that have a decreased environmental impact. It reaffirms our commitment to operational excellence, business sustainability and environmental protection.”