Wallenius Wilhelmsen dual-fuel car carrier to complete first methanol bunkering op

Norwegian energy company Equinor on Thursday (9 July) said it has taken delivery of Arctic Tern, the first vessel in its new Shaper Class series, marking a significant milestone in the company’s fleet renewal journey. 

The vessel is also expected to complete its first methanol bunkering shortly after delivery, marking another step in Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s decarbonisation journey.

With dual-fuel capability, methanol readiness and enhanced operational efficiency, Arctic Tern supports customers’ growing demand for more sustainable and future-ready logistics solutions.

The delivery of Arctic Tern marked a defining moment for Wallenius Wilhelmsen. The vessel will be deployed through EUKOR Car Carriers, the jointly owned shipping line of Hyundai Motor Group and Wallenius Wilhelmsen.

“As the first vessel in our new Shaper Class series, Arctic Tern reflects our commitment to investing in the future of shipping,” said Xavier Leroi, COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, who also serves as CEO of EUKOR Car Carriers.

With greater cargo transport capacity, improved fuel efficiency and flexibility, the Shaper Class strengthens the company’s ability to meet evolving customer needs while supporting lower-emission shipping. 

Following delivery, Arctic Tern will enter service between Asia and Europe almost immediately, delivering value to customers from day one. 

Xavier Leroi, COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, said: “These vessels strengthen our ability to deliver reliable and efficient services to customers while supporting the transition towards lower-emission operations. 

“They are also a critical building block in our ambition to offer net-zero end-to-end services as early as 2027. It is a milestone that reflects both our ambitions for the future and our determination to turn those ambitions into action.”

Photo credit: Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Published: 13 July, 2026