Hapag-Lloyd reports that it has completed Engine Part-Load Optimisation (EPLO) projects on two container vessels in cooperation with Accelleron and HD Hyundai Marine Solution (HD HMS), resulting in fuel savings of more than 10g/kWh, representing a 5% reduction in overall consumption within specific load ranges.
The 14,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) ships, Basle Express and Essen Express, underwent main engine tunings and turbocharger modifications to align with lower engine loads, with sea trials and subsequent operations revealing the extent of the subsequent fuel savings.
Following these results, the shipping line says that it plans to also extend the engine modifications to the remaining eight vessels in its Dortmund Express class fleet.
“Enhancing our vessels’ efficiency is a key pillar of our energy efficiency and decarbonisation strategy,” said Dr Christoph Thiem, Director Fleet Innovation & Projects at Hapag-Lloyd.
“The measured fuel savings provide a clear competitive edge for our fleet, delivered within just four weeks after placing the order and realising immediate benefits for our company.”
The EPLO system ensures that vessels operating at lower speeds, whether to comply with environmental regulations or reduce costs, run as efficiently as possible. The two ships had previously received hull and propeller enhancements, and the new engine tunings and turbocharger cut-outs allow the vessels to maintain required propulsion power while increasing fuel efficiency at lower loads.
“This remarkable engine performance improvement, measured under real operating conditions, confirms the technical robustness of EPLO upgrades for vessel operating at part-load conditions,” said Thomas Häni, Senior Engine Expert at Accelleron.
“Working with Hapag-Lloyd and HMS, this project establishes a scalable retrofit approach that supports both operational efficiency and regulatory compliance across the container shipping fleet.”
