Wallenius Marine Launches Eco-Friendly Car Carrier for Volkswagen

Wallenius Marine on Monday christened its new vessel, Future Way, in Emden, Germany. The innovative car carrier is based on the Sleipner design concept and marks a significant advancement in the Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) segment.

Developed in collaboration with Danish design firm KNUD E. HANSEN and Volkswagen Group, the Future Way boasts advanced hydro- and aerodynamic features that substantially reduce emissions, energy consumption, and environmental impact. The vessel is the first of two car carriers commissioned for Volkswagen’s Europe-North America route.

“The Sleipner concept is the result of close co-operation between Wallenius, KNUD E. HANSEN and VW Group. This partnership has enabled us to take further steps towards truly sustainable shipping with Future Way,” said Johan Mattsson, CEO of Wallenius Marine.

One of the most notable innovations is the ship’s ability to cross the Atlantic without ballast water when fully loaded. Finn Wollesen, Managing Director of KNUD E. HANSEN, explained: “This both reduces the risk of spreading invasive species and makes the vessel lighter, leading to lower fuel consumption.”

“They not only emit less CO2, but also fewer nitrogen oxides, soot particles, and sulphur oxides, leading to better local air quality,” added Simon Motter, Head of Volkswagen Group Logistics. “The innovative design of these vessels results in lower fuel consumption and allows us to reduce emissions even further today.”

The Future Way can transport up to 6,500 cars, utilizing an efficient center ramp system for loading and unloading. The 200-meter-long, 37-meter-wide vessel was built by CIMC Raffles in China.

Wallenius Marine was spun off from Wallenius Lines in 2003 and focuses on ship management, technical services, and vessel design and construction. The company is part of the Soya Group.