Volkswagen Group Logistics is using two car freighters powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) in overseas traffic. The two charter ships of Siem Car Carriers were launched in Xiamen, China.

Thomas Zernechel, head of group logistics, commented: "We are entering a new field here to reduce emissions. Both ships are the first overseas car freighters in the world to be LNG-powered. In addition to the increasing use of LNG trucks, conversion of our many rail transports to green electricity and the use of biofuel in the short sea segment, the two new LNG ships represent an important building block for our strategic goal of climate-neutral logistics.”

The ships will replace oil-powered cargo ships, with the LNG engines offering a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of up to a quarter, nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 30 per cent, particulate matter by up to 60 percent and sulphur oxide emissions by up to 100 percent per ship.

Both vehicle transporters are powered by a 12,600 kW dual-fuel marine engine with direct injection and exhaust gas treatment from MAN Energy Solutions of the Volkswagen Group. In addition to liquid, deep-frozen natural gas, they can also be operated with environmentally friendly e-gas produced via Power-to-X or biogas.

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