Sleipner RoRo: Visualizing the Future of Sustainable Shipping

Wallenius Marine and KNUD E. HANSEN introduced their groundbreaking Sleipner RoRo concept at the Donsö Shipping Meet in Sweden. Building on the success of their award-winning Sleipner PCTC design, this new RoRo vessel leverages operational insights from the Future Way and Way Forward ships.

The Sleipner RoRo, measuring 170 meters in length, boasts a cargo capacity of 2 720 lane meters, capable of carrying up to 181 trailers. Its innovative design places the engine room in the bow, enabling seamless cargo handling through a stern ramp and main deck that spans the full width of the ship for faster, more efficient loading and unloading.

The vessel is powered by a dual-fuel electric propulsion system, compatible with liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied biogas (LBG), marine gasoil (MGO), and biodiesel. It also features Azipods, a 360° steerable propulsion system that enhances maneuverability, making navigation and docking in busy ports more efficient.

Urban Lishajko, Head of Ship Design at Wallenius Marine, emphasized, “Short-sea RoRo shipping is vital for shifting transport from road to sea, supporting sustainable logistics. As the industry faces a need for new, energy-efficient vessels with lower emissions, our collaboration with KNUD E. HANSEN delivers a concept that balances capacity, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.”

The Sleipner RoRo is designed with future-ready features, including provisions for wind sails, shore power, and alternative energy sources like batteries and fuel cells to further reduce emissions and energy use. Last December, Wallenius Marine conducted wind tunnel tests in Gothenburg to validate the aerodynamic performance of their wind-powered PCTC, incorporating a sleek hull and advanced wing sails.