World’s First LNG-Fueled Car Carrier Receives ‘AFVC’ Notations For Safe EV Transport

Mitsui OSK Lines has announced that its LNG-fueled car carrier, the CERULEAN ACE, managed by MOL ship management, has received “Additional fire-fighting measures for Vehicle Carrier” (AFVC) certification from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK).

This is the first time a ship operator has received global certification for voluntary onboard fire prevention measures specifically targeting the transport of electric vehicles.

The certification acknowledges MOL’s proactive approach to improving onboard safety, especially against the unique risks posed by EV fires, which are difficult to extinguish and prone to re-ignite.

ClassNK established the certification requirements for fire safety in its Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles, published in August 2023. These guidelines allow for objectively evaluating safety measures implemented by shipowners and management companies.

The CERULEAN ACE has been recognized for meeting three of ClassNK’s five fire safety notations: FD (Fire Detection), FF (Fire Fighting), and EFF (Enhanced Fixed Fire-Extinguishing System).

The FD notation requires the installation of modern camera systems and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for smoke detection in the cargo holds of new vessels, including the CERULEAN ACE.

When the AI system detects an abnormality in the camera-captured images, it immediately transmits a warning to the onboard crew and the onshore management team, enabling a faster response to fire outbreaks. The system’s efficacy in early fire detection was crucial to its certification.

The AFVC certification shows ClassNK’s approval of MOL’s commitment to safety in maritime EV transport. As a vehicle transportation industry leader, MOL continues to enhance safety procedures to ensure the safe handling and transport of electric vehicles.

MOL’s achievement comes as shipping companies progressively implement various safety measures to address the specific challenges of EV fires.

In support of these efforts, ClassNK’s guidelines specify five types of AFVC notations based on various safety measures. The CERULEAN ACE’s compliance with three of these notations demonstrates MOL’s commitment to using unique fire protection techniques.

The CERULEAN ACE is a 7,050RT LNG-powered dual-fuel car carrier with a high-pressure main engine. It was built by Shin Kurushima Dockyard Co., Ltd.’s Onishi Shipyard and has a length overall (LOA) of 199.95 meters and a breadth of 38.00 meters. It has a maximum capacity of 7,050 units.

Reference: MOL, ClassNK