Grimaldi Takes Delivery of Ammonia-Ready Car Carrier Grande Oriente

Italian shipping group Grimaldi has expanded its fleet with the delivery of Grande Oriente, the twelfth next-generation Pure Car & Truck Carrier (PCTC) designed with future conversion to ammonia fuel in mind. The new vessel is part of the company’s ongoing fleet modernization program aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Built by China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu and sailing under the Italian flag, Grande Oriente has been designed to support a future transition to ammonia as a zero-carbon marine fuel. The vessel can transport up to 9,000 vehicles, including both conventional gasoline and diesel-powered cars as well as electric vehicles.

Measuring 220 meters in length, the car carrier has received the “Ammonia Ready” class notation from the Italian classification society RINA, confirming that its design allows for future conversion to ammonia propulsion without requiring major structural modifications.

According to Grimaldi, the vessel incorporates a range of advanced energy-saving technologies that can reduce fuel consumption by up to 50% compared with previous-generation car carriers. These improvements include an optimized hull design, enhanced propulsion efficiency, and advanced onboard energy management systems, all aimed at lowering operating costs and environmental impact.

Grande Oriente is scheduled to begin commercial service on the Asia–Europe trade route. Its maiden voyage will depart from Taicang, China, bound for Portbury, United Kingdom, carrying more than 6,200 vehicles along with approximately 700 lane meters of rolling cargo.

The delivery of Grande Oriente highlights the shipping industry’s growing commitment to sustainable transportation and alternative marine fuels. As global decarbonization efforts continue, ammonia is increasingly viewed as one of the most promising zero-carbon fuel options for the future of maritime shipping.