MOL Unveils Innovative Dual-Fuel Methanol Carrier 'Kohzan Maru VII' for Extended Charter Partnership

Mitsui O.S.K. lines,Ltd. (MOL), as reported by the company, recently celebrated a significant milestone with the delivery of the Kohzan Maru VII on May 30. This innovative methanol dual-fuel carrier was built at HD Hyundai Mipo in Ulsan, South Korea.

The Kohzan Maru VII is set to operate under a long-term agreement with Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. (MGC), which is headquartered in Tokyo and led by President Yoshinori Isahaya. The vessel will be managed by Eifuku Kaiun Co., ltd., based in Hiroshima Prefecture.

Prior to its official launch, a naming ceremony took place on May 23 at HD Hyundai Mipo where MGC Chairman Masashi Fujii named the ship “Kohzan Maru VII.” Notably, this vessel marks Japan’s first ocean-going methanol dual-fuel ship chartered for long-term use.

This venture builds upon MOL and MGC’s legacy that began back in 1983 when they introduced japan’s inaugural methanol carrier, also named Kohzan Maru.The new vessel aims to enhance enduring practices by using methanol as fuel while transporting eco-amiable methanol sourced from renewable materials provided by MGC.

Both MOL and MGC are committed to leading advancements in maritime transport that align with global sustainability goals. With the operation of Kohzan Maru VII, they aim to play a pivotal role in promoting carbon neutrality within the industry.

In line with their environmental objectives outlined in “MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2,” MOL has set an aspiring target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To reach this goal, they are focusing on integrating clean alternative fuels into their operations and plan to have around 90 LNG/methanol-powered vessels active by 2030.Currently boasting one of the largest fleets dedicated to methanol transportation globally—comprising 19 vessels—MOL has been at the forefront since launching its first dual-fuel vessel back in 2016. With eight such vessels ordered since then—including Kohzan Maru VII—the company is poised for further expansion as it strives toward its net-zero emissions target while championing sustainable shipping practices worldwide.