SHENZHEN: BYD, the world's biggest electric vehicle maker, has started a significant venture in maritime transportation with the introduction of its first dedicated roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) carrier.
This vessel, named Explorer No. 1, was delivered at Yantai Port in Shandong Province on Jan 10 and embarked on its maiden journey from here.
The ship marks an enhancement in BYD's logistics capabilities, especially in the context of the current constraints in global ro-ro shipping resources.
BYD said the 199.9 metre-long vessel was built sustainably through advancements in green and intelligent shipbuilding technologies.
It has a significant loading capacity, capable of transporting up to 7,000 vehicles, and is equipped with a dual-fuel system that uses LNG (liquefied natural gas) and conventional fuel.
Over the next two years, BYD plans to expand this fleet with seven additional vessels, all incorporating BYD’s energy storage battery technology and shaft generator systems, reflecting the company's approach towards greener maritime transportation.
BYD corporate division general manager Wang Junbao said automakers in China sold over 9 million new energy vehicles in 2023. New energy vehicles are electrified vehicles that include hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles.
Explorer No. 1 would help BYD expand into overseas markets. The company is open to partnerships, aiming to broaden the reach of Chinese automakers in the international market.
