ONE Rises to Prominence with Megamax Containerships
Ocean Network Express (ONE) has joined the exclusive club of carriers operating “Megamax” containerships that exceed 24,000 TEU capacity. Expanding its fleet with the incorporation of ONE Innovation, the shipping company now competes alongside Mediterranean Shipping Company and Orient Overseas Container Line. Boasting a 20% larger carrying capacity than ONE’s previously largest ships, ONE Innovation also marks a shift towards more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient vessels.
Imabari Shipbuilding in Japan constructed ONE Innovation, the first of six ultra-large containerships commissioned by ONE in December 2020 to bolster its fleet. Established in 2017, ONE is a conglomeration of the containership operations of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and Nippon Yusen Kaisha. Moving forward into 2022, CEO Jeremy Nixon emphasized the company’s focus on capacity expansion and the construction of new ships.
Advanced Designs, Reduced Emissions, and Increased Efficiency
The innovative design of this new class of containerships enables increased economies of scale and lower energy use, contributing towards reduced emissions. With a carrying capacity rating of 24,136 TEU, ONE Innovation lags only slightly behind OOCL’s 24,188 TEU and MSC’s largest vessels, which possess a 24,346 TEU capacity. Measuring 1,312 feet in length and 201 feet in beam, ONE Innovation’s dimensions follow port capabilities and Suez Canal restrictions.
Cutting-Edge Technology Enhances Performance
Japan Marine United Co., Imabari’s parent company, utilized analysis technology to develop an optimal hull form and bow shape for maximum efficiency at the vessel’s most frequently used speed and draft. Energy-saving devices, including the rudder shape and a bow windshield, further improve the ship’s energy efficiency. The shipyard also implemented “brittle crack arrest technology” for extra-thick, high-strength steel plates, resulting in enhanced safety without compromising loading efficiency.
Deployment and Future Growth
ONE Innovation’s maiden voyage saw it depart Japan and arrive in Ningbo, China on June 6. The vessel will form part of THE Alliance on the Asia-Europe service alongside recently delivered ULCVs from MSC and OOCL. Hapag-Lloyd is expected to deploy LNG-fueled ULCVs currently under construction in South Korea soon.
With the incorporation of ONE Innovation and its state-of-the-art design, Ocean Network Express proves its commitment to expanding capacity while improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions. As part of ONE’s growth strategy, we can anticipate the construction and deployment of more environmentally friendly and technologically advanced ships.
