The first two vessels in the Sleipner concept – Way Forward and Future Way – have demonstrated high performance, low fuel consumption, and CII values far below current requirement levels. This means they emit less CO2 per transported unit than the average for comparable vessels, placing them in the highest energy efficiency class (A) according to the IMO’s international classification. The Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) measures a vessel’s carbon emissions relative to cargo capacity and distance sailed and is reported annually to the IMO’s Data Collection System (DCS).
The thresholds for ratings A to E will become increasingly strict through 2030, making these results particularly important from a long-term performance perspective. The A‑rating of Way Forward and Future Way places them among the top approximately 10 percent globally within their category of Ro‑Ro Vehicle Carriers. They are well within future emission limits and will retain their A‑rating for many years to come.
Features include hydrodynamically optimized hulls, streamlined superstructures, optimized steel structures, dual-fuel machinery, and optimized cargo configurations. These features enable the vessels to reduce water resistance, air resistance, and fuel consumption while improving performance and efficiency. The Sleipner concept is a groundbreaking development by Wallenius Marine and KNUD E.
HANSEN, which aims to apply energy-efficient principles to RoRo vessels. The concept is now being further developed for other types of vessels, including those with wind-assisted propulsion options. Way Forward and Future Way are the first two car carriers in this innovative concept, showcasing its potential for reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency in the shipping industry.
They have set a new standard for energy-efficient RoRo vessel design and will play an important role in meeting future emission targets. The vessels’ performance is a testament to the effectiveness of the Sleipner concept, which has been designed to minimize environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. With their A-ratings, Way Forward and Future Way are not only reducing CO2 emissions but also contributing to a more sustainable shipping industry.
As the shipping industry continues to evolve, vessels like these will be crucial in driving innovation and reducing carbon footprint. The success of Way Forward and Future Way is a significant milestone for Wallenius Marine and KNUD E. HANSEN, demonstrating their commitment to developing environmentally friendly solutions.
These vessels are an excellent example of how technology can be harnessed to create more efficient and sustainable shipping options. By adopting this innovative design, the shipping industry can reduce its environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. The future of RoRo vessel design looks bright with vessels like Way Forward and Future Way leading the way in energy-efficient innovation.
The achievement of A-ratings by Way Forward and Future Way is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry, and their success will serve as a benchmark for future vessel designs. As the industry continues to evolve, vessels like these will play an increasingly important role in driving innovation and reducing environmental impact.
