Pacific International Lines 太平船务 (PIL) today held the naming ceremony for its latest two 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels, Kota Elok and Kota Elan, at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in Shanghai.

The two vessels are the first deliveries in PIL’s series of 13 new 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel containerships, and will be deployed on the Asia–South America trade. Their addition will strengthen PIL’s capacity, service reliability and operational efficiency on this important long-haul corridor.

Kota Elok, meaning “beautiful city” in Malay, was named by Ms Chan Wai Ching, Chief Corporate Officer of Temasek International. Kota Elan, inspired by the French word “élan”, symbolising energy and forward momentum, was named by Ms Yan Zi, Olympic tennis bronze medallist and Grand Slam women’s doubles champion. Ms Yan is also the wife of Mr @Lee Shing Kan, Executive Director of Xinyi Glass, one of the world’s leading glass manufacturers.

The ceremony was attended by PIL CEO Mr @Lars Kastrup, PIL Director Mr Eng Aik Meng, Hudong-Zhonghua Chairman Mr Chen Jianliang, and Mr Li Wucheng, Director of the Container Center of Shandong Port Group.

According to PIL, the new vessels incorporate advanced energy-saving and digital technologies, including an optimised hull form, efficient energy systems, high-performance hull coating, AI and IoT-enabled digital solutions. Kota Elok is also equipped with a bow windshield to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Mr Lars Kastrup said the double naming represents an important milestone in PIL’s fleet modernisation programme and reflects the company’s commitment to meeting growing Latin America trade demand while advancing sustainable shipping.

As global liner operators continue to renew fleets for a lower-carbon future, this latest milestone also highlights the strong role of Chinese shipyards in building the next generation of large, fuel-flexible container vessels.