Auto-Eco Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has initiated an inquiry into a significant incident involving the tug 'Svitzer Avon' (IMO: 9788162). The towline incident occurred on February 4, 2025, while the tug was engaged in assisting the cargo vessel 'Auto Eco' as it maneuvered towards the Royal Portbury dock in Avonmouth, Bristol. The failure of the towline resulted in a sudden recoil, which caused damage to the tug's wheelhouse and led to injuries for two crew members aboard the 'Svitzer Avon.' Following the incident, the 'Auto Eco' continued its journey from Bristol on February 5, setting sail for Zeebrugge.

The Petrolesport ro-ro terminal, operated by Global Ports, has successfully unloaded the inaugural vessel from United European Car Carriers' (UECC) innovative ecological class series. This significant achievement marks the commencement of a regular service that will transport vehicles from Saint Petersburg to a series of key ports including Uusikaupunki, Bremerhaven, Southampton, Zeebrugge, Malmoe, and Hanko, before returning to Saint Petersburg. During this operation, the terminal efficiently managed the unloading of three vessels, carrying a total of 1,840 cars and 370 heavy ro-ro vehicles. Following the successful trial phase, UECC's M/V Auto Eco and M/V Auto Energy, the world’s largest dual fuel car and truck carriers, will now operate weekly on Saturdays at Petrolesport. These vessels can utilize both fuel oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), leading to significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions of CO2 and NOx. Moreover, the use of LNG virtually eliminates Sulphur Oxide and particulate matter emissions, aligning with stringent environmental standards set for the Baltic Sea region. This commitment to eco-friendly shipping practices exemplifies UECC's dedication to sustainability in the maritime sector.

On November 24, United European Car Carriers (UECC) celebrated a landmark event with the naming of the world's inaugural dual-fuel LNG pure car truck carrier (PCTC), the Auto Eco, at the Port of Zeebrugge. The ceremony was attended by key representatives from UECC's parent companies, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) and Wallenius Lines, who played a pivotal role in bringing this innovative vessel to life. Claire Tillekaerts, the CEO of Flanders Investment & Trade, had the honor of serving as the ship's godmother during the festive occasion. The Auto Eco represents the first of a series of two sister ships, developed in collaboration with Kawasaki Heavy Industries at the NACKS shipyard in China. Glenn Edvardsen, the CEO of UECC, highlighted the ship’s groundbreaking features, stating, "It is the first PCTC of its kind in the world to be equipped with a dual-fuel LNG propulsion system, enabling it to undertake a fourteen-day round-trip voyage purely on LNG without the need to refuel. The Auto Eco not only meets stringent emission regulations but surpasses them, allowing it to operate in any environmental control area globally." In addition to its green technology, the Auto Eco is designed to comply with the Super 1A Finnish/Swedish ice class standard. Edvardsen elaborated, "To ensure safe navigation in icy waters, Auto Eco has been constructed to meet the highest ice class specifications. While her primary routes may be in the Baltic Sea, she is capable of navigating almost anywhere, including the challenging Northeast or Northwest Passage if required." This vessel sets a new standard in eco-friendly maritime transportation, paving the way for a sustainable future in the automotive shipping industry.