Thailand-based Regional Container Lines (RCL) is returning to Huangpu-Wenchong Shipbuilding with a new order for four 1,900-TEU container ships.
The contract covers vessels from the shipyard’s Honghu, or “swan,” series, a feeder vessel design developed and optimised by Huangpu-Wenchong for regional container operations.
The latest order further strengthens the relationship between the two companies and adds to the shipyard’s growing orderbook for the design.
Designed for regional container routes
The new vessels will measure approximately 172 metres in length and 27.5 metres in breadth, with a deadweight of around 24,000 tonnes.
According to Huangpu-Wenchong, the design focuses on efficient container loading, reduced energy consumption and flexibility across different routes. These characteristics are intended to allow operators to adjust vessel deployment according to changing network requirements.
The ships will also comply with the International Maritime Organization’s EEDI Phase 3 energy-efficiency requirements.
Focus on lower-emission operations
The four new container ships will feature several technologies designed to improve their environmental performance.
These include shore power systems and sulphur scrubbing equipment, alongside other environmental protection systems.
The energy efficiency measures, together with the flexible operating capabilities, enable more efficient feeder operations and help achieve ever more stringent environmental standards in shipping.
RCL and Huangpu-Wenchong deepen partnership The new agreement follows a partnership established in 2024, when RCL placed an order with Huangpu-Wenchong for four 4,300-TEU container vessels.
With the latest contract, the two companies now have orders for eight vessels in total, according to the shipyard.
The new order also reinforces Huangpu-Wenchong’s position in the feeder container ship market, with the Honghu design continuing to attract interest from international liner operators seeking vessels suited to regional trade networks.
