BYD Auto has officially confirmed the maiden commercial voyage of the new car carrier BYD Shenzhen, which is currently the world's largest roll-on/roll-off ship and plays a strategic role in the Chinese automaker's international logistics. The launch of this vessel was another step in expanding BYD's global presence in the electric vehicle market and demonstrates the company's increasing self-sufficiency in supplying its own products to all continents.
BYD Shenzhen has impressive characteristics: the length of the hull reaches 219 meters, the width is 37.7 meters, and the draft is 9 meters. The vessel can reach speeds of up to 18.5 knots, which is equivalent to approximately 34 kilometers per hour. Its carrying capacity allows it to transport up to 9,200 passenger cars at a time, which puts it on a par with the most modern vessels in the world's motor transport fleet. According to Chinese media, Shenzhen departed from Yantian Port in Shenzhen on its first trip to Europe, which indicates BYD's focus on actively expanding the European market.
The technical equipment of the car carrier also deserves special attention. The ship operates with a dual-fuel engine system, capable of using both traditional “marine“ fuel and liquefied natural gas (LNG), which significantly reduces emissions of harmful substances. In addition, it is equipped with new-generation energy-saving systems, including innovative batteries of BYD's own production, and is also covered with a special anti-corrosion coating, which also reduces resistance during movement, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
According to official statements by company representatives, BYD Shenzhen is not only a logistics asset, but also a demonstration of the technological level of a manufacturer that confidently competes not only in the automotive but also in the shipbuilding industry. In addition, the vessel meets the highest modern environmental standards, which is especially important given the tightening of regulations in the field of international maritime transport and the requirements for reducing the carbon footprint.
The appearance of this ship was the fourth event of this type for BYD since the beginning of 2024. Thus, the company continues to expand its own fleet of roll-on/roll-off vessels, which allows it to significantly reduce dependence on external logistics operators, minimize delivery delays and respond promptly to changes in demand in different regions of the world. This approach, combined with the rapid development of the electric car model range, provides BYD with a stable position among the leaders of global car exports.
In a strategic context, the launch of BYD Shenzhen is not only a logistical decision, but also a manifestation of the overall transformation of the industry, when car manufacturers are increasingly taking control not only of the production process, but also of supply chains, adapting to the new realities of the global market. In the case of BYD, which is actively competing with giants such as Tesla, Volkswagen or Toyota, the presence of its own sea fleet gives the company a significant advantage in the speed of expansion into new markets and maintaining supply flexibility in constantly changing geopolitical conditions.