The Future of Shipping Has Arrived: Grimaldi’s GG5G Fleet Goes Full Hybrid
In a bold move that cements its position as a pioneer in maritime innovation, the Grimaldi Group has just unveiled the final piece of its cutting-edge Grimaldi Green 5th Generation (GG5G) fleet: the Eco Napoli. This hybrid roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ship isn’t just another vessel—it’s a game-changer for sustainable shipping, blending next-gen tech with eco-conscious design to redefine what’s possible on the high seas.
Delivered on March 14, 2025, from the Jinling shipyard in Nanjing, China, the Eco Napoli is the 14th and final addition to Grimaldi’s GG5G class. With a sleek 238-meter frame, a 34-meter beam, and a gross tonnage of 67,311, this Italian-flagged marvel is built for speed (20.8 knots, to be exact) and efficiency. But what really sets it apart is its ability to carry double the cargo of its predecessors while slashing CO2 emissions per unit by a staggering 50%. Talk about doing more with less.
Tech That Powers the Future
Under the hood, the Eco Napoli is a symphony of advanced engineering. Its electronically controlled engines are fine-tuned for peak performance, while an exhaust gas cleaning system scrubs sulfur and particulate emissions from the air. But the real showstopper? Its zero-emission capability during port stays. Thanks to a massive 5 MWh lithium battery bank—recharged at sea by shaft generators and 350 square meters of solar panels—the ship can switch to silent, emission-free mode when docked. It’s like Tesla meets Maersk, and the results are nothing short of revolutionary.
This isn’t just about reducing emissions; it’s about reimagining the entire shipping ecosystem. The Eco Napoli’s hybrid system isn’t just a nod to sustainability—it’s a full-throttle commitment to a greener future. And with seven decks capable of handling 7,800 linear meters of rolling cargo (think cars, trucks, and heavy machinery), this ship is as practical as it is progressive.
Redefining the Motorways of the Sea
Set to debut in the Mediterranean in early May, the Eco Napoli will ply Grimaldi’s RoRo routes, connecting key ports like Gemlik, Ambarli, Patras, and Trieste. But this isn’t just another ship on another route—it’s the culmination of a billion-dollar investment in sustainable maritime transport. “The GG5G fleet has revolutionized short-sea transport in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe,” says Emanuele Grimaldi, Managing Director of Grimaldi Group. “With these ships, we’re offering more capacity, efficiency, and sustainability than ever before.”
Grimaldi’s vision goes beyond just moving cargo; it’s about creating a smarter, cleaner, and more efficient shipping network. The GG5G fleet is a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets ambition, and the Eco Napoli is its crowning achievement.
So, what’s next for the shipping industry? If Grimaldi’s GG5G fleet is any indication, the future is hybrid, sustainable, and smarter than ever.
