CM Hong Kong Becomes World’s First 9,300-Car Methanol Dual-Fuel PCTC

China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES) has officially taken delivery of the CM Hong Kong, the world’s first methanol dual-fuel pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) with a capacity of 9,300 vehicles. The handover took place on September 17, 2025.

The vessel was constructed by China Merchants Industry and will operate under the Hong Kong flag. It is 219.9 meters long, 37.7 meters wide, and 14.9 meters deep, with 13 cargo decks.

Although its original capacity was set at 9,300 car equivalent units (CEU), its final design allows for 9,492 CEU. The ship can transport a wide range of cargo, including cars, buses, trucks, trailers, heavy machinery, and next-generation new energy vehicles powered by hydrogen and natural gas.

One of its defining features is a fully integrated methanol-based energy system. This setup includes a dual-fuel main engine, auxiliary engines, methanol supply units, and a boiler, making it possible to seamlessly switch between fuel types.

According to industry reports, operating on methanol allows the vessel to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70% compared to conventional marine fuels. The ship also meets the IMO Tier III emission standards.

The CM Hong Kong is the first in a planned series of six methanol dual-fuel PCTCs ordered by CMES. This fleet expansion includes two carriers with 9,300 CEU capacity and four with 7,800 CEU capacity.

Reference: CMES

Source: Maritime Shipping News