BYD launches environmentally friendly car carrier

BYD launched the world’s largest vehicle RoRo vessel, which can accommodate up to 9,200 cars. The carrier, named after BYD’s hometown, undocked in Yangzhou port, about three hours northwest of Shanghai. The new vessel is 219 meters long, 37.7 meters wide, and has a draft of 9 meters. Its maximum speed is 18.5 knots (34.3 km/h).

BYD Shenzhen is BYD’s fourth car carrier. The company plans to have eight carriers in total by early 2026 to fuel its global expansion. BYD is known for its massive vertical integration instead of relying on third-party suppliers. Thus, in addition to making cars, it produces its battery packs and cells, owns lithium mines, and operates an EV insurance company in China to cover all parts of the EV supply chain.

BYD claims the Shenzhen is the world’s most environmentally friendly car carrier. The new carrier uses LNG dual-fuel technology, allowing it to run on LNG and traditional marine fuel. It is also equipped with energy-saving devices to enhance operational efficiency. BYD Shenzhen is the first carrier to feature BYD box stationary storage batteries. The company didn’t provide details, but it will most likely power the ship during docking or in low-emission zones to reduce fuel consumption.

The Shenzhen-based automaker launched its first carrier a year ago, in January 2024, called BYD Explorer. It was followed by BYD Changzhou, launched in December 2024, and set sail to Europe with 5,000 EVs onboard. Last week, BYD put into operation the 7000-car carrier BYD Hefei. The company plans to have a fleet of eight carriers by the beginning of 2026.

All eight BYD car carriers are designed as RoRo vessels. RoRo stands for roll-on/roll-off, a ship that carries vehicles driven on and off the boat via built-in ramps. These ramps may be located at the vessel’s stern, bow, or sides, allowing for efficient loading and unloading without cranes or other external equipment.