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| Always a pioneer |
In 1965, MOL launched the first pure car carrier (PCC) to meet the needs of Japan's burgeoning automobile export trade. Since then, we have offered continual improvements to the safety and reliability of our car carrier service, as well as expanding to meet a globalizing market.
The capacity of PCCs at the time was about 1,200 automobiles, but today's vessels accommodate all types of vehicles, from passenger cars to construction machinery. With 13 cargo decks, these ships can transport 6,400 standard passenger cars at once. Recently these vessels are designated as pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), rather than PCC. |
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| Car carrier SANDERING ACE |
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Loading large construction equipment |
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Loading passenger cars |
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| Developing services to meet a rapidly changing business environment |
In recent years, car transport has shifted from a Japan-centered model to a global one, as the car manufactures have expanded their production overseas.
MOL utilizes its 45 years of car carrier know-how and experience to develop comprehensive car carrier operations. For example, in China, we offer domestic inland transportation and coastal PCTC service through joint ventures with local companies. |
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| A new generation of efficient, eco-friendly ships |
Like our other activities, car carrier operation focuses on protecting the environment, by improving fuel efficiency and reducing exhaust emissions of our ships.
MOL launched the Courageous Ace in 2003, introducing a range of energy-saving features. For example, the bow is aerodynamically rounded and beveled along the bow line to reduce wind resistance. All MOL-owned car carriers built since then are based on this innovative design. What's more, an insulated coating on the decks reduces temperatures on the vessel and increases air conditioning efficiency, and double hull fuel tanks reduce the risk of oil leakage. MOL's eco ships continue to evolve. The Euphony Ace, launched in 2005, and the Swift Ace launched in 2008 features a solar power generation panel which uses natural energy installed on the deck. |
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