MacGregor Secures Retrofit Order for 35 Wallenius Wilhelmsen Vessels for Enhanced Operations

MacGregor Enhances Fleet Operations with PLC Retrofit

MacGregor, a prominent player in maritime logistics, has recently announced a significant contract with Wallenius Wilhelmsen involving the retrofitting of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) on 35 Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessels. This initiative, which encompasses essential upgrades to the quarter ramps of the ships, underscores MacGregor's longstanding relationship with Wallenius Wilhelmsen, a partnership that dates back to the original design and construction of these vessels.

The contract was officially recorded in MacGregor's third quarter 2026 order intake. Implementation of the upgrades will be strategically scheduled to coincide with the vessels' sailing timetables, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. The decision to replace the existing PLCs aligns with Wallenius Wilhelmsen's commitment to sustainability; the outdated controllers will be preserved onboard as spares for other RoRo equipment, thereby promoting resource efficiency within the fleet.

Tom Forrester-Coles, Fleet Manager of Technical Marine Operations at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, highlighted the importance of maintaining operational reliability in a competitive market. He stated, "With increasing customer demands, our goal is to minimize operational disturbances while continuing to provide exceptional service. Upgrading our systems and applying a standardized approach to managing obsolescence across our fleet are critical measures to equip our crew with reliable operational tools."

Tomas Hakala, Executive Vice President of Global Services at MacGregor, emphasized that their participation in the project is a continuation of the collaboration that began during the vessels' initial design phase. "By supporting Wallenius Wilhelmsen throughout the entire lifecycle of their fleet—from the initial design phases to modernizations—we ensure both reliability and consistent operational performance, which are vital in today’s challenging market environment," he noted.

MacGregor, as a committed partner in this context, focuses on enabling sustainable maritime operations. They believe in maximizing efficiency through innovative technologies that improve cargo handling and operational performance while simultaneously prioritizing safety and reducing environmental impact.

The Significance of the Retrofit

The retrofitting of PLCs is more than just a technical upgrade; it represents a critical step towards ensuring that these vessels remain at the forefront of industry standards in reliability and efficiency. PLCS are essential for controlling various functions of the ship's systems, including the movement of ramp gates that facilitate loading and unloading.

By improving these systems, MacGregor aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of the PCTC vessels. This type of proactive maintenance is essential not just for meeting current operational standards but also for preparing for future advancements as global shipping demands evolve.

Emphasis on Long-Term Partnership

MacGregor's dedication to its partnerships with clients such as Wallenius Wilhelmsen is rooted in a philosophy of lifetime support for maritime assets. With an extensive track record and strong technical expertise, MacGregor continues to earn the trust of industry leaders, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and excellence. This retrofit project is a testament to their belief that long-term relationships foster the best outcomes for both companies.

As MacGregor moves forward with this project, their focus extends beyond the immediate technical upgrades. They are dedicated to delivering lasting value through enhanced maritime operations while ensuring that their solutions comply with the rigorous demands of the industry.

For further details, MacGregor representatives remain available for inquiries. Through this latest initiative, both MacGregor and Wallenius Wilhelmsen aim to reinforce their collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable growth within the maritime sector, demonstrating their commitment to operational excellence and innovation.