Peel Ports Group and UECC marked a historic moment as the first multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC in the history of the port docked at London Medway on Monday 28 February.
The arrival of the M/V Auto Advance Hybrid ship marked its first time in the UK, having arrived from Vigo, Spain with arrangements to discharge vehicles destined for customers throughout Britain.
Capable of shipping as many as 3,600 cars over ten decks, the ship measures 169 meters in length, 28 meters in width.
Emitting virtually no sulphur oxides (SOx), 85% less NOx, and 40% less carbon dioxide (Co2) compared to existing conventional heavy oil-fuelled vessels, the M/V Auto Advance is significantly better for the environment and is a step forward in the way in which vehicles are transported by sea.
One of three of its kind operated by UECC, the vessel arrived at London Medway as the port continues to operate efficiently despite the congestion issues that have affected a number of other ports in the South East of England.
UECC is a leading provider of sustainable short sea ro-ro transportation in Europe, providing safe and secure transportation of factory new cars and light commercial vehicles to 24 locations across Europe.
UECC CEO, Glenn Edvardsen said:” We are rapidly building up our low-emission fleet to become the leading eco-friendly shortsea carrier in Europe through the addition of these newbuilds that will, alongside the use of alternative fuels on our existing vessels, drastically reduce UECC’s environment footprint”.
Richard Goffin, Port Director, South East Ports Cluster at Peel Ports said: “The arrival of the M/V Auto Advance Hybrid into London Medway is a significant moment within our history and compliments Peel Ports recent commitment to becoming Net Zero by 2040.
“London Medway handles in excess of 300,000 cars a year as part of our large ro-ro operation and the UECC LNG Battery Hybrid powered vessel is an important step in ensuring that car shipping becomes as environmentally friendly as possible.”
“As a port we are proud to play our part in creating a green future for the UK”.