photo credit: https://www.wartsila.com/media/news/11-06-2025-wartsila-hybrid-propulsion-solution-to-optimise-efficiency-and-enable-zero-emissions-for-four-new-dutch-vessels-3594817
Vertom Group to Install Wärtsilä Hybrid Propulsion and MacGregor Electric Cranes on Four 10,700 DWT Tween-Deckers
Vertom Group, a Netherlands-based shipowner and maritime service provider, has placed orders for four new 10,700 DWT geared tween-deckers to be constructed at Chowgule Shipyards in India. These vessels will be equipped with Wärtsilä’s integrated hybrid propulsion solution and MacGregor’s fully electric cargo cranes. The contracts, booked in early 2025, reflect Vertom’s ongoing fleet renewal programme and commitment to sustainable shipping by integrating advanced propulsion technology and electric cargo handling systems.
Background and Contract Signing
Vertom Group’s fleet renewal strategy aims to replace older tonnage on its Europe Caribbean Line (ECL) service with more efficient, flexible, and environmentally responsible vessels. The order for four 10,700 DWT geared tween-deckers was signed in November 2024 and will see deliveries of the hulls in 2027 and 2028. Wärtsilä’s scope covers the hybrid propulsion package, while MacGregor will supply fully electric cargo cranes. These initiatives align with Vertom’s ambition to reduce its carbon footprint, comply with IMO Tier III requirements, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Technical Specifications
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Hybrid Propulsion System
Wärtsilä will deliver an integrated hybrid propulsion solution combining a Wärtsilä 25 medium-speed four-stroke main engine, battery system with PTO/PTI/PTH functionality, selective catalytic reduction for NOₓ reduction, gearbox, controllable-pitch propeller, transverse thruster, ProTouch remote control system, and EcoControl optimisation. This arrangement enables battery-only operation in ports or restricted waters, automated load optimization for fuel efficiency, reduced engine wear, and lower emissions during low-load conditions. The equipment is scheduled for delivery to Chowgule Shipyards in 2026, with vessel deliveries in 2027 and 2028. -
Electric Cargo Cranes
MacGregor has secured an order to deliver two fully electric cargo cranes per vessel, each with an SWL of 80 tonnes and an outreach of 18 meters. This represents MacGregor’s first electric crane delivery for vessels built in India, with crane deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026. The fully electric cranes replace conventional hydraulic systems, reducing fuel consumption for auxiliary systems, lowering noise levels and emissions, and enhancing safety and reliability in cargo handling operations. -
Design and Integration Partners
The vessels are designed by Groot Ship Design, with system integration support from Eekels Technology. Chowgule Shipyards will construct the hulls. The partnership among Vertom, Wärtsilä, MacGregor, Chowgule, and other stakeholders ensures that design, equipment selection, and integration meet performance, safety, regulatory, and sustainability targets.
Sustainability and Efficiency Benefits
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Emission Reduction: The hybrid propulsion system allows zero-emission sailing in port or coastal areas on battery power alone, and optimised engine loading during transit to reduce CO₂ and NOₓ emissions. This supports compliance with IMO Tier III regulations and Vertom’s carbon reduction goals.
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Fuel Efficiency: EcoControl’s automated optimization balances propeller pitch, engine loading, and vessel draught in real time, achieving lower specific fuel consumption, extended maintenance intervals, and reduced operating costs over the vessel lifecycle.
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Operational Flexibility: The hybrid drivetrain combined with electric gensets and battery storage allows flexible power management, improved redundancy, and the ability to operate in low-emission modes when required by port regulations or charterers.
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Cargo Handling Performance: Fully electric cranes reduce dependency on hydraulic power units, lowering auxiliary fuel use and maintenance needs, while improving handling precision and safety, particularly for mixed breakbulk and dry bulk cargo operations.
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Market Positioning: By integrating hybrid propulsion and electric cargo handling, Vertom enhances its appeal to customers seeking greener supply chain solutions and demonstrates leadership in adopting advanced maritime technologies.
Industry Commentary
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Vertom Group: Thomas van Meerkerk, responsible for Business Development & Innovation at Vertom, noted that the newbuild design “seamlessly integrates cutting-edge innovation with economic viability and a strong focus on reducing carbon footprint”. Rolf van Leeuwen, Newbuilding Superintendent at Vertom, highlighted the strategic value of electric cranes in advancing safer and more sustainable operations.
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Wärtsilä: Luuk Hijlkema, Senior Sales Manager Benelux at Wärtsilä Marine, commented that the combined hybrid solution “represents the latest advances in marine technology, offering both performance and environmental benefits, reinforcing our commitment to decarbonising shipping operations”.
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MacGregor: Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President of Equipment and Solutions Division at MacGregor, stated that partnering with Vertom on electric crane delivery “demonstrates our capability to meet evolving industry demands with efficient and environmentally responsible solutions”.
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Chowgule Shipyards & Partners: Shrikant Itagi, Director Projects at Chowgule, affirmed the choice of electric crane technology for its advanced VFD controls and proven track record in Indian shipyard projects.
Vertom Group’s integration of Wärtsilä’s hybrid propulsion package and MacGregor’s electric cargo cranes on four new 10,700 DWT tween-deckers underscores a strategic commitment to sustainable shipping, operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. The project, scheduled for delivery in 2027–2028, exemplifies industry collaboration among shipowner, equipment suppliers and shipyard to deploy advanced technologies that reduce emissions, optimize fuel consumption and enhance cargo handling. This initiative positions Vertom at the forefront of maritime green innovation and meets rising market demand for environmentally responsible logistics.
