Suardiaz Group has expanded its automotive shipping programme with RS Atlantico, the first of a new series of dual-fuel PCTC vessels. The ship departed China and will strengthen Suardiaz Shipping Lines’ capacity for vehicles and rolling industrial cargo.
RS Atlantico can carry approximately 5,500 cars, alongside machinery and High & Heavy cargo. Measuring about 190 metres and 55,000 GT, it is the largest vessel in Suardiaz’s history. The company says the ship will add capacity on established routes serving automotive customers.
Its engines can run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which Suardiaz presents as a transitional option supporting shipping decarbonisation as environmental rules evolve. The group also says it is the first Spanish shipowner to operate an LNG-powered vessel in the car-carrier segment.
The vessel forms part of a six-year investment programme worth more than €360 million. The programme covers fleet renewal, international expansion, logistics infrastructure and specialist industrial and energy capabilities, as well as multimodal services linking sea, road and rail transport.
RS Atlantico is expected to arrive in the final quarter of 2026. A second vessel is planned for mid-2027. Suardiaz’s activities are detailed on its corporate website.
A multilingual professional experienced in Europe, Canada, and China, Herbert has developed invaluable networks in the automotive and energy industries. He has led high-profile projects involving ENBW, Mercedes-Benz Group, Siemens Group, and the Fraunhofer Institute.