Malta Freeport Terminals proudly welcomed CMA CGM Champs Elysees, the second 23,000 TEU containership to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). The Freeport deployed three megamax quay cranes to handle the 23,000 TEU capacity ship with maximum efficiency.

LNG is currently considered as the state-of-the-art energy solution for preserving air quality. It delivers a 99 per cent reduction in sulphur dioxide and fine particle emissions and 85 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions, all of which represent a major healthcare challenge. As the industry strives to achieve zero-emission transport, LNG is currently the best intermediary solution as this class of vessel emits up to 20 per cent less CO2 than heavy fuel powered systems.

The CMA CGM Champs Elysees, along with its eight 23 000 TEU sister ships, including the CMA CGM Jacques Saade, are the result of 7 years’ research and development and a long cooperation between CMA CGM’s research and development experts and industrial partners whereby every detail has been optimised to reduce the vessel’s environmental footprint.  Using the same pioneering technology as the CMA CGM Jacques Saade aimed at preserving air quality and accelerating maritime transport’s energy transition, they feature cutting-edge technology including a cockpit with the latest digital onboard equipment to assist the captain and crew, especially during port manoeuvres, and a straight bow with integrated bulb, rudder and propeller with a redefined design that improves hydrodynamics. CMA CGM Champs Elysees joins the French Asia Line, CMA CGM Group’s most emblematic line between Asia and Northern Europe.

CMA CGM plans to have a fleet of 20 LNG-powered vessels in service by 2022: nine 23,000 TEU ships, five 15,000 TEU ships and six 14,000 TEU vessels.