China boosts sustainable transport with new solar and liquefied natural gas car carrier

COSCO Shipping has launched the “YUAN HAI KOU,” an innovative car carrier car carrier combining solar energy and liquefied natural gas (LNG). This vessel, the largest of its kind in China, departed on May 15 from Guangzhou with nearly 4,000 vehicles on board bound for Europe and North Africa.

Designed to operate on the China-Mediterranean route, the vessel manages to shorten the voyage time to approximately 30 days. Its itinerary is articulated around the port of Piraeus, a strategic node connecting with important ports in France, Spain and the Black Sea. The “YUAN HAI KOU” marks a key logistical leap for the export of Chinese vehicles.

A dual car carrier

The “YUAN HAI KOU” was built by Guangzhou Shipbuilding International for Guangzhou Yuanhai Auto Carrier, a subsidiary of COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers. With a length of almost 200 meters, this vessel represents the Chinese state’s commitment to green logistics, aligned with the China Classification Society’s standards for new energy vehicles.

With 12 cargo decks (four adjustable), the vessel can carry heavy machinerybuses and MAFI cargo. But the highlight is its environmental commitment: it combines LNG energy, solar panels and connection to the port power grid. This trifecta allows for an estimated 24% reduction in carbon emissions.

The onboard photovoltaic installation, the largest of its kind, generates 410,000 kWh per year. This translates into 111 tons of fuel savings and the mitigation of nearly 346 tons of_CO2, figures supported by COSCO.

The safety system is adapted to the new challenges of electric vehicle transport. electric and hydrogen vehicles and hydrogen vehicles, integrating thermal sensors, compartmentalization by zones and specialized extinguishing systems. In addition, each transported unit is tracked in real time using proprietary software, optimizing emergency response.

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Source and photos: COSCO Shipping