The 700TEU electric container ships N997 and N998, constructed on December 28 by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., were acquired by COSCO Shipping Development. “Zhongyuan Haiyun Lvshui 01” and “Zhongyuan Haiyun Lvshui 02” are the world’s first electric container ships for the River-Sea Direct Service.
This type of ship was independently researched, planned, and built by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry while upholding its own intellectual property rights, according to reports. Furthermore, it is the biggest electric ship project now underway in China as well as the first batch of green, zero-carbon pilot ships.
With a length of 119.8 meters and a beam of 23.6 meters, the ship is powered by 36 marine containerised batteries that are interchangeable and have a capacity of over 800 new energy vehicles. The world’s largest battery bank, which powers the ship, is replenished by a moveable power exchange device that looks like a box.
This ship leads the world in loaded box count, deadweight tonnage, and battery capacity of 100% electric container boats. Compared to the present domestic and foreign ship types, its preset battery capacity is much higher.
During its maiden voyage, which is planned to start in mid-to late-January 2024, “Zhongyuan Haiyun Lvshui01” is expected to travel on the “Nanjing-Yangshan” route.