MacGregor, a UK-based producer of cargo and load-handling solutions for the maritime industry, has received an order from the Netherlands-based Vertom group to supply electric cargo cranes for four multipurpose vessels being constructed at Chowgule Shipyard in India. Deliveries of the equipment are scheduled to begin in 2026. The order was booked in the second quarter of 2025.
Each vessel will be outfitted with two fully electric cargo cranes, with a safe working load of 80 tonnes and an outreach of 18 metres. The cranes are intended to replace traditional hydraulic systems, aiming to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. The deal was facilitated in collaboration with VARYA Tech Pvt Ltd., MacGregor’s local sales partner in India.
“These electric cranes support our commitment to safer and more sustainable operations and reflect our ambition to lead by example in responsible shipping,” said Rolf van Leeuwen, Newbuilding Superintendent, Vertom.
“We chose MacGregor Cranes for this project due to advanced VFD electric crane technology and experience of MacGregor in delivering successful projects to Indian shipyards,” stated Shrikant Itagi, Director Projects, Chowgule Shipbuilding Yard.
“This order demonstrates our ability to meet the evolving demands of the shipping industry with efficient and environmentally responsible solutions.” said Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Equipment and Solutions Division, MacGregor.
The vessels are part of Vertom’s broader fleet renewal programme. In November 2024, Vertom had placed orders for four 10,700 DWT geared tweendeckers at Chowgule Shipyards. The contract for the new vessels was signed on 18 November 2024 in Goa, and deliveries are scheduled for 2027 and 2028. Each vessel is designed to have a gross hold volume of 14,243 cubic metres and equipped with diesel-hybrid propulsion, including Tier III-compliant engines, SCR systems, and a 910 kWh battery package to optimize fuel efficiency.
Vertom plans to deploy the new vessels on the Europe Caribbean Line (ECL) service, operating in partnership with Vertraco Shipping. The vessels are designed to handle breakbulk and dry bulk cargoes across routes connecting Europe with the northern coast of South America.
MacGregor designs and supplies cargo and load-handling solutions for the maritime industry, offering products such as cranes, hatch covers, and deck machinery for various vessel types. The company operates as part of Cargotec Corporation.