Pacific International Lines (PIL) has named its latest 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels, Kota Elok and Kota Elan, at a ceremony held at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, marking another milestone in the carrier’s fleet renewal programme.
The vessels are the first in a series of 13 new 13,000 TEU ships being built for PIL. The company said the newbuildings will strengthen its operational capabilities, increase capacity and improve efficiency while supporting its long-term sustainability goals.
Kota Elok and Kota Elan are set to be deployed on PIL’s Asia-South America service, a trade lane that has experienced sustained cargo growth. Their addition is expected to help the carrier meet rising demand and improve network efficiency.
Both vessels are capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and low-sulphur fuel oil, enabling lower greenhouse gas emissions compared with conventional vessels. Their introduction forms part of PIL’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The ships also feature a range of energy-efficiency technologies, including optimised hull designs, energy-saving systems, and advanced hull coatings aimed at reducing fuel consumption. In addition, they are equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to enhance operational performance and onboard automation.
Kota Elok is further fitted with a bow windshield designed to improve aerodynamics and support fuel-efficiency gains on long-haul voyages.
“The naming of Kota Elok and Kota Elan highlights the acceleration in PIL’s journey to modernise our fleet and strengthen our position in key trade lanes,” said Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL.
“At the same time, they reflect our continued commitment to sustainability. By investing in LNG dual-fuel technology and advanced vessel designs, we are taking meaningful steps towards reducing our carbon footprint and achieving our net zero ambitions.”
