Hapag‑Lloyd AG confirms a fleet of eight new dual‑fuel methanol container vessels

On 12 December 2025, Hapag‑Lloyd AG announced the placement of a substantial order with the Chinese shipbuilder CIMC Raffles for eight new container ships. Each vessel will have a capacity of 4 500 TEU and will be powered by dual‑fuel methanol engines, enabling the use of both conventional marine diesel and low‑emission methanol. The investment exceeds US $500 million and the first deliveries are scheduled for 2028–2029.

The order is part of a broader strategy to reduce the company’s carbon footprint. In addition to the new ships, Hapag‑Lloyd has secured 14 long‑term charter contracts that will also enter service between 2027 and 2029. The dual‑fuel technology is expected to lower CO₂ emissions by up to 30 % compared with conventional fuel and will position the company ahead of tightening IMO regulations.

Market context

The announcement comes while Hapag‑Lloyd’s share price stands at €124 as of 11 December 2025, well below its 52‑week high of €171.8 but comfortably above the low of €108.3. With a market capitalisation of €21.79 billion and a price‑earnings ratio of 14.16, the stock is considered moderately valued relative to its peers in the industrial shipping sector.

Strategic implications

  • Decarbonisation focus – The methanol‑powered vessels align with global decarbonisation trends and the company’s commitment to sustainable logistics.
  • Fleet expansion – The eight new ships will expand Hapag‑Lloyd’s capacity by roughly 36 000 TEU, strengthening its position in the competitive container market.
  • Risk mitigation – Long‑term charters provide revenue certainty and help offset the high capital outlay.

Outlook

Analysts are monitoring the company’s execution of the construction programme and the development of methanol supply chains. If the vessels deliver on their promised emissions reductions, Hapag‑Lloyd could gain a competitive edge as shippers increasingly seek greener transport options. The stock’s current valuation suggests that the market has already priced in a portion of the expected benefits, but further upside may remain as the company demonstrates operational and financial performance from its new fleet.