Maritime startup Veer and Fosen Shipyard have signed a letter of intent (LOI) to develop, construct, sell and purchase two firm units of wind-powered and hydrogen-assisted containerships.
This vessel is said to be the “world’s first” clean containership to cross an ocean.
According to Veer, its “future-fit, fast, clean, cost-competitive” fleet combines innovative hull shape, DynaRig sails and hydrogen fuel cells for increased speed and range.
The ship design, Design Nº1, is defined as ‘‘absolute zero emissions’’ by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and boasts class notations for silent operation.
Danielle Southcott, Veer’s CEO, commented: “We are thrilled to be taking this major step forward with Fosen Shipyard. After a thorough, yearlong tender process, our team is confident that Fosen is the best fit. Fosen is a highly capable shipyard and it is inspiring to work with leadership who see the value and potential of Veer’s vision.”
Carsten Stellamanns, Fosen Shipyard’s CEO, stated: “We are delighted and excited that Veer has chosen Fosen to build the first zero emissions container carrier in Germany. Together with Veer we are looking forward to creating a game changing concept and bringing it to the waters.”
For technical management, Veer has partnered with Bernhard Schulte Ship Management. Furthermore, the company has engaged with FutureShips ship brokerage and is said to be in discussion with multiple charterers for clean liner services beginning in 2027.
Veer has secured a €50 million LOI from Prow Capital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to finance the design and construction of the ships. Currently, the company is raising capital with a Series A investment round.
In October 2022, Veer received approval in principle (AiP) from the classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the zero-emission ship project.