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27 December, 2000 FOR TRANS-PACIFIC TRADE TOKYO, JAPAN - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is planning to deploy eight new PANAMAX containerships in the company's Trans-Pacific service. The plan, once officially decided, is to replace 2800 TEU "Alligator" class vessels that the company currently deploys in the trade. Under the plan, MOL expects delivery of the new vessels during 2003. The new vessels will have the carrying capacity of 4500 TEU, including 400 refrigerated container plugs. They will have a service speed of 25.5 knots, which is the fastest in the class. MOL plans to offer very competitive service with these very fast vessels. MOL's new building plan is a part of The New World Alliance's (TNWA) mid and long term fleet and service enhancement plan. MOL is a partner in TNWA with APL Ltd. (APL) and Hyundai Merchant Marine Co., Ltd. (HMM). The deployment of these vessels is synchronized with projected capacity requirements in the Trans-Pacific trade. This decision, together with the delivery of 8 Over Panamax vessels in 2001 and 2002, will enhance and improve MOL service further. MOL operates one of the largest and most diverse networks of liner and logistics services meeting the needs of today's customers in the global business. |