BYD’s Ro-Ro Vessel Explorer 1 Can Transport 7,000 Cars at a Time Without Breaking a Sweat
Chinese auto giant BYD has successfully completed the inaugural sea trial of its revolutionary Ro-Ro vessel, Explorer 1. This massive ship has the capacity to transport an enormous 7,000 cars in a single journey. The trial, which lasted seven days, took place in the port city of Yantai, marking a significant milestone in BYD’s ambition to expand its overseas market presence.
Rumors about BYD’s plans to build its own car carrier had been circulating for several years. Finally, in October 2023, local media confirmed that a BYD affiliate would be ordering eight ro-ro vessels with the ability to transport a staggering 7,700 cars each. These orders were placed at a shipyard in Yantai, Shandong. Surpassing expectations, the first vessel has already completed its trial voyage.
The mammoth Explorer 1 was constructed by Guangzhou Shipbuilding International, which is a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation. The ship, measuring 199.9 meters in length and 38 meters in width, boasts a design draft of 9 meters and a design speed of 18.5 knots. Equipped with a dual fuel propulsion system, it can be powered by both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and traditional fuel, making significant strides toward cleaner energy in the maritime transport industry.
Notably, Explorer 1 also incorporates a battery pack and a shaft generator, enabling zero-emission sailing. This integration of clean energy solutions sets an important precedent for sustainable shipping. The vessel is also equipped with various energy-saving features, such as energy-efficient devices, drag-reduction mechanisms, and anti-fouling paint.
BYD plans to manufacture a total of six ships in the first stage, with an option for two additional vessels. As the owner of these impressive car carriers, BYD intends to assist European shipping companies in overcoming their long-standing logistical challenges. This venture signifies a significant investment for BYD, with an estimated cost of nearly 5 billion yuan (over $704 million). It serves as a strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence in overseas markets.
It is worth noting that the news of BYD’s remarkable achievement comes in the wake of a car shipping incident that made headlines this past summer. The Fremantle Highway, a cargo ship carrying 3,784 vehicles (including 498 electric cars) from Bremerhaven to Singapore, caught fire in the North Sea. The National Transportation Safety Board investigation determined that the blaze was caused by an electrical fault from a disconnected battery.
The completion of the Ro-Ro vessel Explorer 1 represents a significant step forward in the automotive shipping industry, with BYD leading the way in sustainable and efficient transportation. This state-of-the-art vessel’s impressive capacity and eco-friendly features highlight the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. BYD’s foray into the maritime sector is not only remarkable for the auto giant, but it also contributes to the global efforts towards a greener future.
As BYD continues to expand its presence in the international market and achieve record-breaking export numbers, the launch of Explorer 1 is set to revolutionize the way cars are transported across the globe. With its cutting-edge technology and commitment to sustainability, BYD is paving the way for a new era in automotive shipping.
