China launches world’s largest fully electric bulk carrier

China has launched its largest fully electric bulk carrier, named Gezhouba, in Yichang, in the central province of Hubei — a major milestone in the country’s drive toward green and smart maritime transport, according to the state news agency Xinhua.

The vessel is approximately 130 meters long and has a maximum cargo capacity of more than 13,000 tonnes. It is equipped with 12 lithium battery units providing a total capacity of 24,000 kWh.

According to its developer, the ship allows for rapid battery swaps and offers a range of up to 500 kilometers.

In terms of smart technology, the vessel features an advanced automated control system that enables remote navigation and automatic berthing, integrated with multilink communication networks.

Yan Xinping, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, said the project goes beyond a simple product innovation, successfully validating key technologies such as high-capacity batteries and distributed direct-current energy systems.

The vessel is expected to save approximately 617 tonnes of fuel per year and reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by 2,052 tonnes.

Source: Portal Portuário

Sharing is caring!