Chinese automaker BYD has launched the Shenzhen, the world's largest car transport ship, capable of carrying up to 9,200 vehicles. It has now set sail on its first ocean voyage.
This giant of the seas is 219 meters long and 37.7 meters wide, and can carry up to 9,200 cars on a total of 16 decks, setting a new record.
This ship is a roll-on/roll off – or RoRo – vessel, a type of cargo ship specially designed to carry vehicles or other goods on wheels.
Named "Shenzhen," this vessel is powered by a dual-fuel system combining liquefied natural gas (LNG) and marine diesel.
The Shenzhen is also equipped with batteries manufactured by BYD, which reduce its CO2 emissions during port maneuvers.
Ultimately, BYD aims to have eight large RoRo vessels by 2026, more or less equivalent to this one, in order to boost its export capacity and, above all, control its entire supply chain as it conquers new international markets, notably Europe and South America.
The Shenzhen's maiden voyage takes it to Brazil, with more than 7,000 brand-new electric vehicles on board. — AFP Relaxnews
