YANGZHOU, Feb. 18, 2024 – China's inaugural 16,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container vessel, COSCO SHIPPING Yangpu, was christened at Yangzhou COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry in Jiangsu Province. The shipbuilder announced the vessel will undergo final system upgrades and sea trials before commencing commercial operations in June 2024.

Measuring 366 meters in length and 51 meters in width, this next-generation eco-friendly vessel boasts a maximum capacity of 16,136 TEU containers. It features the world's first methanol dual-fuel marine boiler system, with core components manufactured domestically. Industry experts note its integrated smart systems – including intelligent engine room monitoring, autonomous navigation assistance, and energy management platforms – meet global maritime technology benchmarks.

COSCO SHIPPING revealed the ship's 12,500-cubic-meter methanol fuel tanks enable complete trans-Pacific voyages using clean energy. "This achievement marks a crucial step in establishing green methanol supply chains," said a company representative. Upon delivery, the vessel will initially service North America's East Coast routes, projecting 15% carbon emission reductions through its advanced power management systems.

Notably, the DNV-classified smart ship system demonstrates 23% higher energy efficiency than conventional vessels, setting new environmental standards for global shipping. Maritime analysts suggest such clean-energy ships could accelerate international efforts to decarbonize sea freight by 2030.