The Republic of China unveils the world's first battery-powered container ship on the Yangtze River!The 700 TEU ship can carry a whopping 700 twenty-foot containers. Its electric propulsion relies on interchangeable batteries that can be swapped during the journey.
The Power of Interchangeable Batteries
The 965-kilometer journey along the famous Yellow River is now powered by a groundbreaking system. Two 900 kW main engines drive the ship, while a battery exchange system housed in 36 of the 700 containers provides sufficient energy for the long route. Each exchange unit boasts an impressive 50,000 kWh capacity, making this project a game-changer in the shipping industry.
Sustainable and Smart Design
Measuring 120 meters in length and about 24 meters in width, the ship weighs approximately 10,000 tons. Equipped with intelligent control systems, it ensures maximum efficiency by precisely adjusting power consumption to the ship’s needs. The cruising speed depends on factors like estimated arrival time, water currents, and remaining battery capacity. This vessel marks a significant milestone as the world’s first large battery-powered container ship for long-distance transportation.
Green Initiatives Along the Yangtze
The Chinese government sees the Yangtze River area as a vital project for promoting ecological development. The world’s largest electric cruise ship, the Yangtze River Three Gorges 1, valued at $23.5 million, embarked on its maiden voyage on the same river in April last year. Both projects are aligned with the government’s eco-friendly objectives for the region.
Pioneering the Way for Eco-Friendly Navigation
The Yangtze River project serves as a blueprint for future environmentally-friendly navigation solutions, according to Cosco Shipping Heavy Industry. The company has already started constructing a second electric container ship in line with the government’s vision for eco-conscious maritime development.
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