China’s Largest PV+LNG Car Carrier “Yuanhai Kou” Sets Sail with LONGi Solar Modules, Showcasing Green Maritime Innovation

China has marked a significant milestone in green maritime transport with the maiden voyage of the “Yuanhai Kou”, the country’s largest ocean-going car carrier powered by a dual solar and liquefied natural gas (LNG) system. Departing from Nansha Port in Guangzhou, the vessel is fully loaded with Chinese-brand vehicles—over 90% of which are new energy vehicles (NEVs)—and is en route to destinations including Greece, Turkey, Italy, and Tunisia.

The 199.9-meter-long ship, with a gross tonnage of 68,252 tons and a displacement of 39,069 tons, features 12 vehicle decks and can accommodate up to 7,000 standard car units. Its cargo includes various types of vehicles such as sedans, buses, engineering equipment, and MAFI cargo.

Designed as China’s largest photovoltaic (PV) + LNG energy car carrier, the “Yuanhai Kou” incorporates cutting-edge green technologies to enhance its low-carbon and intelligent performance. The vessel is powered by an advanced LNG dual-fuel engine and is equipped with a 302.8 kW distributed PV system, the largest of its kind on any comparable ship to date.

LONGi’s Sea-Shield Series Enhances Maritime Solar Efficiency

The onboard PV system features over 500 high-efficiency Sea-Shield series solar modules developed by global solar leader LONGi. Strategically installed across the upper decks, these modules generate an estimated 410,000 kWh of electricity annually, reducing fuel consumption by approximately 111 tons and cutting CO₂ emissions by 345.9 tons—the equivalent of planting nearly 38,000 trees.

LONGi’s Sea-Shield modules are specially designed to withstand the harsh maritime environment, including high humidity, salt spray, and strong vibrations. Using corrosion-resistant materials, reinforced sealing, and specialized junction boxes, the modules ensure stable and reliable energy output under challenging conditions at sea. This clean power supports the ship’s lighting, communication, and auxiliary systems during navigation.

Pioneering Green Shipping and Solar Innovation

The deployment of LONGi’s PV technology on the “Yuanhai Kou” underscores the company’s commitment to developing scenario-specific solar solutions for diverse industries. As part of its broader strategy, LONGi continues to expand its differentiated product portfolio, catering to unique operational demands across land and sea.

Looking ahead, LONGi aims to collaborate with more partners to promote sustainable maritime transport and accelerate the global clean energy transition—lighting up the “Made in China” journey with innovative and reliable green technologies.