EasyMax 2.0 – Certainty in a changing world of maritime logistics
For logistics managers, whose working day consists of balancing delivery reliability, costs, and sustainability, predictability is key. The global logistics chain is buckling under the pressure of stricter emissions regulations, fluctuating fuel prices, and customer demands for CO₂ reduction. To help in this complex situation, Wagenborg offers a concrete solution: the 'fuel-flex' EasyMax 2.0.
"We build vessels that offer our customers continuity in an uncertain world," says Theo Klimp, Fleet Director at Wagenborg. "The EasyMax 2.0 combines proven operational performance with flexibility in fuel choices. This offers future-proofing for the vessel, and for our customers too."
Continuity in transport, control over emissions
The EasyMax 2.0 was developed for shippers who require reliable, sustainable tonnage within their supply chain. While many vessels today still rely on a single type of fuel, the EasyMax 2.0 design offers a 'fuel-flex' concept. Upon delivery, the ships will run on (bio)MGO, but they are prepared for conversion to LNG, methanol, or ammonia – without compromising their cargo hold capacity. This enables Wagenborg to provide its customers with a suitable solution in a world where environmental expectations are ever-increasing.
“The logistics world wants certainty, not experiments,” says Theo. “We build on proven technology, but in such a way that we can effortlessly switch to cleaner fuels as soon as they become economically and technically feasible.” For the supply chain, this means guaranteed availability of ship space and lower CO₂ emissions.
Efficiency in every detail
The EasyMax 2.0 builds on the successful first generation of EasyMax ships, which are among the most efficient general cargo ships in the world. For shippers, this translates into significantly better transport sustainability without sacrificing service reliability. “Our customers operate in supply chains where downtime immediately costs money,” says Theo. “That's why we build ships that not only sail efficiently but also perform predictably.”
Reduced risks, increased predictability
The energy transition brings uncertainty. New regulations may accelerate the obsolescence of existing vessels, while new technologies are not yet fully proven. With the EasyMax 2.0, Wagenborg is opting for risk management through modularity. The vessels can be technically adapted to tomorrow's fuel market without losing today's availability. This prevents customers from having to switch logistics partners when legislation changes. This is a significant advantage in a time when supply chains are vulnerable. "Our fleet strategy revolves around long-term reliability," Theo explains. "Not only for ourselves – we build a vessel for at least 30 years – but also for our customers. Anyone sailing with Wagenborg today knows that their CO₂ footprint will continue to decrease in the coming years, without any operational surprises."
Regional strength, global relevance
The EasyMax 2.0 is not only a technological masterpiece but also a showcase for the Northern maritime ecosystem. The EasyMax 2.0 series is being built at the Royal Niestern Sander shipyard in Delfzijl, which is part of the Wagenborg Group. Design, construction, and operation are thus combined into a single integrated chain – all within a kilometre of each other. This local cluster guarantees short lines of communication, craftsmanship, and continuous knowledge exchange between the shipowner, shipbuilder, and suppliers. The result: vessels that meet the demands of modern logistics and the sustainability goals of shippers worldwide. "We combine the famous Groningen practicality with high-tech shipbuilding," says Theo. "We don't just talk about sustainability; here we build it. Our customers appreciate our down-to-earth approach." This is how Wagenborg combines operational flexibility with technical progress, delivering what the market needs most: certainty in a changing world. "At Wagenborg, we call this 'working together to make sustainability happen,'" concludes Theo.
