Grimaldi Group has taken delivery of the Grande Svezia, the second in a series of ten next-generation pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels under construction at China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu.

The 220-metre vessel, delivered on September 24, can carry up to 9,000 car equivalent units (CEU) across 14 decks and is designed to transport both electric and combustion engine vehicles. With a gross tonnage of 91,611 tonnes and service speed of 18 knots, the ship follows the delivery of sister vessel Grande Shanghai less than a month earlier.

The Grande Svezia is the fourth ammonia-ready ship in Grimaldi's fleet, designed for future conversion to ammonia as a carbon-free alternative fuel. The vessel features a 5 MWh lithium battery system and cold ironing capability, allowing it to achieve zero emissions during port calls where shore power facilities are available.

Energy-efficiency features include 2,500 square metres of solar panels, silicone-based hull coatings to reduce drag, and smart systems for ventilation and climate control. The electronically controlled main engine is fitted with exhaust gas treatment systems to cut sulphur oxides and particulate matter, while a selective catalytic reduction system keeps nitrogen oxides emissions within IMO Tier III limits.

The vessel also incorporates an air lubrication system, optimised hull design, and an innovative gate rudder — installed for the first time on PCTC vessels — consisting of two foil-shaped blades positioned on either side of the propeller to enhance propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability.

Built to Green Plus, Green Star 3, Comfort Vibration, and Comfort Noise Port class notations, the Grande Svezia delivers up to 50% lower fuel consumption compared with earlier-generation car carriers, according to Grimaldi.

"With the arrival of the Grande Svezia, we further consolidate our role as a leader in sustainable maritime transport," said Emanuele Grimaldi, managing director of Grimaldi Group. "This investment reflects our commitment to supporting the global automotive industry with vessels that are ever more advanced, efficient, and with a reduced environmental footprint."

The ship is named after Sweden, where Grimaldi operates the nation's only private port in Wallhamn and has been serving for over three decades.

The Grande Svezia will begin operations on the East Asia — Persian Gulf service, departing from the Chinese ports of Taicang and Lianyungang. The vessel is expected to carry 3,100 vehicles and 5,800 linear metres of rolling cargo — including buses, trucks, excavators, and trailers — to Persian Gulf markets.