Manitou Group has formalized its partnership with the innovative and eco-responsible company NEOLINE, which specializes in maritime transport via ro-ro cargo ships. By signing this contract, the group accelerates its ecological transition by choosing a solution that drastically reduces the environmental impact of its exports to the United States.

This virtuous collaboration between Manitou Group and NEOLINE, which began in 2017, is now formalized by a contract signed by both partners. This partnership involves the transport of all aerial work platforms and telehandlers manufactured by Manitou Group in France via a primarily wind-powered cargo ship heading for the North American market. These products will be loaded at the Saint-Nazaire Port (Loire-Atlantique) for shipping to the East coast of the United States via the Port of Baltimore (Maryland).

“By engaging with a local partner, we are not only strengthening our regional position, but we are also going to reduce our transport carbon footprint, while guaranteeing reliability of service for our customers in the United States and Canada. ” Augustin Merle, Director of Logistics and Projects

With more than 1,000 machines exported to the United States per year, Manitou Group will have a load capacity of up to 40 machines per trip on board this sail cargo ship. This navigation solution will also make it possible to reduce up to 90% of CO2 emissions when compared with a traditional cargo ship making an equivalent trip.

According to the development plan of NEOLINE’s pilot line, construction of the first ship, which will be 136 meters long and have a sail surface of 4,200 m², will begin in the coming months. It will be commissioned on a new transatlantic route between St-Nazaire, Baltimore, Halifax, and St-Pierre & Miquelon. A second ship with equivalent specifications will follow as soon as possible in order to achieve a rate of departure of every two weeks.

Source: Manitou