KfW IPEX-Bank finances two E-Flexer RoPax ships for Stena

• State-of-the-art environmental technology
• “Efficiency” and “flexibility”
• German and European deliveries

KfW IPEX-Bank and the Swedish-based international shipping company Stena have signed a loan agreement of USD 180 million to finance two new E-Flexer RoPax ferries. The ships, which are designed to carry flexible “rolling” (Ro) cargo such as trucks and trailers, as well as passengers (Pax), are among nine new vessels ordered by Stena from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai). The Chinese export credit agency Sinosure covers the loan. A significant proportion of the ferries’ equipment comes from suppliers in Germany and Europe.

The shipyard has already delivered three ships in the E-Flexer class, whose name refers to the particularly high efficiency and flexibility of the ship design. The two new ships will be operated by Stena Line after their planned delivery in 2022 and can be deployed on a wide range of routes across Europe.

The new design with just two propulsion engines instead of four reduces fuel consumption by 25% and CO2 emissions accordingly. At speeds of less than 18 knots, the ships can be run on just a single propulsion engine.

Furthermore, the vessels are equipped with a special hull that reduces water resistance. In addition, the hull is finished with an organic, copper-free paint that makes it difficult for underwater animals to attach themselves. The shape of the stern is designed to cause as few waves as possible.

“We are very pleased to support our long-standing and valued business partner Stena in purchasing the next generation of RoPax ferries,” said Andreas Ufer, the member of the Management Board responsible at KfW IPEX-Bank. “For us, this is another step on the path to environmentally friendly and sustainable passenger and freight transport by sea.”

The ferries are 238 metres long and have a capacity of around 1,200 people (passengers and crew), 3,600 lane metres plus 200 cars on special car decks. The option of converting to methanol or LNG propulsion as well as a possibility to convert to electric hybrid has been planned from the outset.