Grimaldi’s Grande Svezia delivers new buses for Algeria’s transport modernization

On 5 February, the Grimaldi Group successfully completed a strategic call at the port of Djen Djen with its state-of-the-art Pure Car & Truck Carrier (PCTC) Grande Svezia, discharging 380 new buses destined for Algeria’s ambitious national public transport renewal program.uploaded picture

The buses had been loaded in Shanghai (Taicang), further highlighting the Group’s ability to manage intercontinental rolling cargo flows and to connect Asian manufacturing hubs with global destinations through its network.

The operation was part of a national initiative involving the import of over 10,000 buses to modernize the country’s passenger transport fleet. Unloading operations were carried out at a special ceremony in the presence of national, local and port authorities, highlighting the importance of the program and the logistics chain supporting it. Those attending included Ilyas Habes, from the Algerian Ministry of Transport; Fateh Halilou, Governor of the Wilaya (Province) of Jijel; Bouhaouia Samir, President of the Djen Djen City Assembly; Walid Bougous, General Manager of the Port of Djen Djen; Gherssa Yacine, Director of Customs; the Commander of the National Navy; the Commander of the Border Police; and Redouane Djenhia, Harbour Master.

Advanced logistics backed by cutting-edge technology

The Grande Svezia embodies the Grimaldi Group’s strong commitment to environmental innovation. Delivered in September 2025, she is one of the latest additions to its increasingly modern fleet.

Measuring 220 metres in length and 38 metres in width, with a gross tonnage of 91,611 and a service speed of 18 knots, the vessel can carry up to 9,000 CEU (Car Equivalent Units) across 14 decks and is designed to transport both electric and ICE vehicles.

As one of the “Ammonia Ready” PCTC ships in the Grimaldi fleet, the Grande Svezia is designed for future conversion to run on this carbon-free, alternative marine fuel. During port stays, zero-emission operations are possible thanks to a 5 MWh lithium battery system and cold ironing capability.

Additional sustainability features include 2,500 square metres of solar panels, silicone-based hull coatings to reduce drag, smart ventilation and climate control systems, and advanced exhaust gas treatment technologies that significantly cut SOx, NOx and particulate emissions. An Air Lubrication System, optimized hull design and an innovative gate rudder further enhance propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability. Compared with previous-generation car carriers, this vessel achieves up to 50% lower fuel consumption.

The Grande Svezia’s successful call at Djen Djen once again demonstrates the Grimaldi Group’s ability to support large-scale public infrastructure programs by combining operational reliability, advanced vessel technology and sustainable maritime transport solutions. Notably, the delivery of the buses from China under this landmark national program strengthens the Group’s role as a trusted logistics partner, capable of seamlessly integrating global trade routes with national development priorities while advancing its own decarbonization pathway.