According to the latest update from the World Shipping Council (WSC) published on 2/2, the world had 400 dual-fuel container and car carrier vessels in operation as of December 2025. This figure marks a significant increase from 218 vessels at the end of 2024.

In parallel with the delivered vessels, the number of dual-fuel vessels on order also continued to rise, reaching 726 units. This growth occurred even though many vessels have already been transferred from the order book to actual operation. Of the total current orders for container and car carrier vessels, 74% are equipped with dual-fuel technology.

In total, 1,126 dual-fuel container and car carrier vessels have either been delivered or are currently on order, representing an increase of 28% compared to the previous year. The WSC estimates this figure represents over USD 150 billion in capital investment by the global container shipping industry.

The rapid expansion of the dual-fuel fleet reflects the significant investment by shipping companies in the energy transition, according to the WSC. These vessels are specifically designed to switch to renewable and near-zero carbon fuels once such fuels become commercially viable and available at scale.

A dual-fuel vessel is equipped with an engine capable of running on two different types of fuel. These typically include traditional fuels like fuel oil or diesel, and cleaner alternatives such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, or ammonia. Vessels can flexibly switch between the two fuel types depending on operational conditions, bunkering infrastructure, and emission requirements.

Experts state that the development of dual-fuel container and car carrier vessels indicates a clear shift towards lower-emission maritime transport, while ensuring fuel flexibility. This also represents a high-tech vessel segment, reflecting the capabilities of modern shipyards in designing and building green, smart ships.

Ngoc Minh (according to World Shipping Council)