NASSCO Christens Second of Five LNG-Ready Newbuilds with a "Very Significant" Fuel Efficiency Improvement

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Tuesday April 26, 2016

General Dynamics NASSCO says it hosted a christening ceremony Saturday for Magnolia State, the second of five 50,000 DWT, liquefied natural gas (LNG) conversion-ready, and fuel efficient ECO Class tankers being built for American Petroleum Tankers (APT).

Magnolia State will deliver a "very significant" fuel efficiency improvement, says General Dynamics NASSCO, noting that the vessel's design includes dual-fuel-capable auxiliary engines and several features for increased fuel efficiency, such as a G-series MAN ME slow-speed main engine and an optimised hull form.

"The revolutionary ECO Class provides our customers with an alternative option for transporting product that is cost-effective and friendly to the environment," said General Dynamics NASSCO president, Fred Harris.

Magnolia State, a Jones Act tanker, was designed by Daiwoo Ship Engineering Company of Busan, South Korea, and was built for APT at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego, U.S.

"Upon delivery, the Magnolia State will join the ranks as one of the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly tankers in the world," said General Dynamics NASSCO.

In December, General Dynamics NASSCO announced it had delivered the Lone Star State, Magnolia State's sister vessel, to APT.