China has launched the world's largest all-electric river cargo ship – also the first 10,000-deadweight-tonne all-electric vessel – marking a significant step forward in the nation's push for green and intelligent shipping.
Each year, the vessel is expected to save about 617 tonnes of fuel and reduce 2,052 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
The newly unveiled vessel runs entirely on lithium battery power instead of conventional fuel, marking a significant achievement in green shipping technology, Xinhua News Agency reported.
Named Gezhouba, the ship measures 130 meters in length and has a maximum carrying capacity of 13,000 tons. It is powered by 12 lithium battery power units that collectively generate 24,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity.
Engineers involved in the project said the ship’s battery modules can be swapped quickly, ensuring efficient operation. The vessel has an operational range of 500 kilometres on a full charge.
Equipped with an advanced smart control system, the electric cargo ship features remote navigation and automatic berthing capabilities, representing a blend of innovation and automation in inland waterway transport.
According to Yin Shunping of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, the vessel’s development is “not just a single product innovation but a comprehensive technological breakthrough” that successfully integrates large-capacity batteries, direct current (DC) power systems, and intelligent control mechanisms.
He added that the project successfully demonstrated the integration of new engines, smart control systems, coastal infrastructure, remote piloting, multi-network integration, and ship-to-shore communication technologies.
Chinese media reports indicate that the electric vessel will help save up to 617 tons of fuel annually and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 2,000 tons each year, underscoring China’s commitment to greener and more energy-efficient maritime operations.