December 22, 2022– A historic moment unfolded today at the Jiangsu Haizhongzhou Shipbuilding Co., Ltd as the first pure electric container ship for the Xiaoqing River reopening project, the "Luqing 101," was successfully launched into the river. This event marks the official resumption of navigation for the long-dormant Xiaoqing River, revitalizing it with a new, fully electric approach.
The launch of "Luqing 101" carries a dual mission. It is not only the first dedicated vessel to enter service following the river's reopening but also represents one of China's pioneering pure electric container ships for inland waterway transport. Equipped with a high-capacity lithium iron phosphate battery system and an intelligent energy management system, the ship achieves "zero carbon emissions and low-noise operation" throughout its journeys, injecting green momentum into restoring the river's historic vibrancy.
From blueprint to reality, the project team at Jiangsu Haizhongzhou Shipbuilding Co., Ltd overcame key technical challenges, including adapting pure electric vessels to shallow waterways and ensuring battery system safety. The hull design was optimized to suit the Xiaoqing River's specific navigation characteristics, enabling the ship to complete round trips on a single charge. Supporting shore power facilities will also be put into operation simultaneously.
This "green envoy" will soon begin service on the "Luqing" route along the Xiaoqing River, connecting emerging ports and industrial parks along its course. Its inauguration not only reshapes the river’s shipping ecosystem but also demonstrates a new model for green logistics in inland waterway transport. Starting with "Luqing 101," it is hoped that more intelligent, zero-carbon vessels will set sail from here, collectively charting a new course for green development across the Jianghuai river network.
