COSCO Unveils China’s First 16,000 TEU Methanol Dual-Fuel Boxship

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  • COSCO SHIPPING delivers China’s first 16,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ship, setting three major domestic industry milestones.
  • The vessel integrates advanced methanol fuel systems, digital intelligence, and energy efficiency to align with IMO Phase III standards.
  • Developed and delivered entirely in China, the ship showcases the nation’s commitment to green shipping and intelligent shipbuilding.

On June 20, the M.V. COSCO SHIPPING YANGPU was officially delivered at Changxing Island, Shanghai, by COSCO SHIPPING Heavy Industry Yangzhou. This 16,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ship is the first of its kind in China and represents a trio of firsts: the first such vessel ordered by a Chinese shipowner, the first delivered by a Chinese shipyard, and the first real-ship application of a domestically produced methanol engine. This milestone is a key contribution from China to the global maritime industry’s low-carbon transition, underlining its growing leadership in sustainable shipbuilding.

Designing an Ocean Giant

Measuring 366 meters in length and 51 meters in width, the M.V. COSCO SHIPPING YANGPU boasts a container capacity of 16,136 TEUs and houses an ultra-large 11,000-cubic-meter methanol tank. This enables nonstop voyages from the Far East to the U.S. East Coast without the need to refuel. The ship is powered by China State Shipbuilding Corporation’s in-house innovations, including the country’s first methanol dual-fuel engine, marine boiler, and generator set. Its dual-fuel propulsion system supports seamless switching between fuel types depending on voyage needs, with high levels of flexibility and reliability.

Setting New Standards in Emission Reduction

A model of green performance, the vessel surpasses IMO’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) Phase III requirements by 54.4%, making it one of the most fuel-efficient ships globally. When operated on green methanol, it is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 120,000 tons annually—the equivalent of planting 6.7 million trees. To ensure safety and efficiency, the ship features pioneering systems, including a triangular-array methanol fuel tank and a freshwater purging mechanism, which provide a solid framework for safe methanol use.

Digital Intelligence Meets Operational Excellence

Beyond its green credentials, the vessel incorporates cutting-edge digital technologies. Its optimized hull form, energy-efficient propellers, and twisted rudders reduce hydrodynamic drag. It also features the world’s largest permanent magnet shaft generator, enhancing onboard energy efficiency and lowering maintenance needs. Real-time analytics, route optimization, and predictive safety tools are powered by the Advanced Control and Monitoring System (ACMS), which boosts ship performance, management, and operational resilience.

A Showcase of Chinese Shipbuilding Strength

COSCO SHIPPING Heavy Industry Yangzhou, the shipyard behind this innovation, leveraged its expertise in smart and green manufacturing to ensure the efficient construction and delivery of the M.V. COSCO SHIPPING YANGPU. With a focus on lean management, digital operations, and sustainability, the shipyard exemplifies China’s high-end shipbuilding capabilities.

The methanol dual-fuel and intelligent technology model adopted by this vessel not only meets today’s maritime sustainability demands but also serves as a blueprint for the future of green, smart shipping worldwide.

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Source: COSCO SHIPPING Lines