Evolving efficiency

摘要

Ongoing advances in engine technology in conjunction with propulsion system developments, refinements, and meticulous attention to hull-form optimisation have delivered substantive gains in ship performance, generally overshadowed or offset by the uplift in fuel costs and the considerable financial impacts of environmental legislation and intensified competition. Although many in the industry are dismissive of the 'eco' claims being made for new designs of merchantmen, the increase in efficiency per cargo tonne or unit achieved with the latest types relative to tonnage built only a few years ago is incontrovertible.