Wärtsilä to Deliver Hybrid Propulsion Systems for Vertom Group’s New Low-Emission Vessels

Technology provider Wärtsilä has been contracted to supply integrated hybrid propulsion systems for four newbuild 10,700 DWT geared tween decker vessels being constructed for Dutch shipping firm Vertom Group. The move is part of Vertom’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet and transition toward more sustainable maritime operations.

The hybrid propulsion package will include Wärtsilä’s latest medium-speed Wärtsilä 25 4-stroke engine, along with a power take-off/power take-in (PTO/PTI/PTH) system that enables battery-powered sailing without combustion. The order was confirmed in the first quarter of 2025.

The ships, designed for transatlantic operations, mark a technological leap for Vertom following the success of its diesel-electric models in the short-sea segment. The hybrid systems are intended to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while optimizing fuel efficiency across various sailing conditions.

Thomas van Meerkerk, Business Development & Innovation lead at Vertom, said the vessels reflect a careful balance between innovation and economic viability. “The new 10,700 DWT design integrates advanced technology to lower emissions and enhance operational efficiency. Wärtsilä has been a critical partner in helping us realize this ambition,” he stated.

Wärtsilä’s full scope of delivery includes not only the engine but also NOx reduction systems, a gearbox, controllable pitch propellers (CPP), a transverse thruster, and its ProTouch remote propulsion control platform. The company’s EcoControl technology will also be installed, allowing the vessels to dynamically adjust propeller pitch and engine load for optimal performance depending on draught and environmental conditions.

“This hybrid solution demonstrates our commitment to decarbonising shipping through innovative technology that improves both environmental performance and operational cost-efficiency,” said Luuk Hijlkema, Senior Sales Manager for Benelux at Wärtsilä Marine.

The vessels are being designed by Groot Ship Design and built at Chowgule Shipyards in India. Eekels Technology is contributing as the E-power and drive system specialist, also acting as the system integrator for the project. Close cooperation between Wärtsilä, Eekels, and Groot Ship Design has been credited for optimizing the propulsion configuration and ensuring seamless system integration.

Ulco Hoekstra, Manager of Sales & Business Development at Eekels Technology, highlighted the collaborative effort, stating, “This project exemplifies what’s possible when technical expertise is brought together early in the design process.”

The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery in 2026, with the vessels set to enter service between 2027 and 2028. Once completed, they will operate under the Europe Caribbean Line (ECL), in collaboration with Vertraco Shipping, another Vertom Group company.