Named Brands Hatch, the vessel represents a significant step forward in sustainable shipping technology. Every surface is protected by AkzoNobel’s advanced coatings, ensuring long-lasting durability and technical reliability to support its eco-efficient performance.
The world’s first Aframax oil tanker to incorporate wind-assisted propulsion has been constructed in China, with AkzoNobel playing a key role in the pioneering project by supplying 350,000 litres of its high-performance International® marine coatings.
Built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., the ship is equipped with three intelligent fibreglass sails, which are expected to reduce fuel consumption
by approximately 12% per year and cut annual carbon emissions by around 5,000 tonnes under standard operating conditions.
“We are extremely proud to have supported this landmark project. The successful application of our coatings not only reinforces the proven performance of our International anti-corrosive and fouling control technologies, but also reflects our continued commitment to decarbonisation through sustainable innovation,” has stated Rob Leslie, Commercial Director of Marine and Protective Coatings for AkzoNobel Greater China.
Among the products applied was Intercept® 8500 LPP, one of the most advanced fouling control coatings in the International® range. Used on the vessel’s underwater hull, it combines linear polishing technology with an optimised biocide package to deliver reliable, long-term protection – helping to maintain a clean hull, enhance fuel efficiency and reduce CO₂ emissions.
Commissioned by UK-based shipping company Union Maritime, Brands Hatch is an Aframax-class tanker, typically used for short to medium-haul crude oil transport and with a deadweight tonnage between 80,000 and 120,000. The vessel is the third high-profile ship built in China in recent years to be coated by AkzoNobel. The company also supplied over 300,000 litres of International® coatings for Dream – China’s first domestically designed and constructed ultra-deepwater drilling vessel – and its Intersmooth® fouling control technology was used on Adora Magic City, the country’s first large cruise ship.