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TOTE, Inc. has announced that it has committed to the construction of two new state-of-the-art containerships for the Puerto Rico trade, with options for three more vessels for additional domestic service.

According to TOTE, Inc., the vessels will be "the most environmentally friendly containerships in the world" with CO2 emissions-per-container 71% less than vessels currently operating in the Puerto Rican trade. Particulate matter will be reduced by 99%, sulphur oxides will be 98% lower and nitrogen oxides will be cut by 91%.

The 3100 TEU ships are expected to be the largest ships in the world powered primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Both ships will be powered by dual-fuel LNG engines that surpass the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's clean air regulations.

General Dynamics NASSCO, based in San Diego, California, will build the vessels. The first two ships are scheduled to be delivered and enter service between Jacksonville and San Juan in 2015 and 2016.

"These new TOTE, Inc. ships will be the most efficient in the trade. The ship design accommodates five times more 53-foot containers than current ships in Puerto Rico and will allow for the transport of everything from cars to corn syrup. The ships will include expanded volumes for refrigeration equipment, critical to ensure that pharmaceuticals, produce and other foodstuffs vital to the residents of Puerto Rico are delivered in the best possible condition. The maritime shipping trade to Puerto Rico is an essential part of sustained economic development for the Island and these vessels will provide the most modern, reliable service available. The total capital committed to the project is over $350 million," TOTE, Inc. said.

Anthony Chiarello, President and CEO of TOTE, Inc. said: "This investment demonstrates our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico and our environment. These vessels mark a new age of shipping using the best technology in the world."

Vessel Technical Specifications

Principal Characteristics

Length Overall: 764 ft
Breadth: 106 ft. (Panamax)
Depth: 60 ft
Draft: 34 ft

Propulsion Plant
Main Engine Type: Dual Fuel Slow Speed (x1)
Main Engine Model: MAN 8L70ME-C8.2-Gl
Main Engine MCR: 25,191 kW x 104.0 rpm
Main Engine NCR: 21,412 kW x 98.5 rpm
Aux Engine Type: Dual Fuel Medium Speed (x3)
Speed: 22.0 kts