Shandong's green vessel wins first European order from CMA CGM

A fully-electric container vessel built by Shandong Xinneng Shipbuilding was launched in Jining's Zoucheng, East China's Shandong province, on March 19, marking the first time a Chinese-made electric inland container ship has entered the international market.

The 182-TEU vessel was commissioned by French shipping giant CMA CGM, the world's third-largest container carrier. The 79.9-meter ship has a deadweight tonnage of 3,500 metric tons. Powered by four swappable battery containers from CATL, it is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 778 tons annually once deployed on a green route in Vietnam.

The 182-TEU green vessel built by Jining-based Shandong Xinneng Shipbuilding is launched in the Baimahe River in Zoucheng, Shandong province. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_ccfd1293bad8]

"This vessel represents cross-border technical collaboration at its finest," said Qi Yong from Bureau Veritas, who worked with his European and Chinese teams to certify the design. The ship features a streamlined hull for reduced resistance and intelligent navigation systems for enhanced safety.

To date, Shandong Xinneng Shipbuilding has received orders for over 200 vessels, with 89 already delivered. The company is positioning itself as a pioneer in green inland shipping solutions, partnering with industry leaders like CATL and Wuhan University of Technology.

The launch strengthens Shandong's role in the global green shipping transition, demonstrating the province's ability to deliver integrated "R&D–manufacturing–operation" solutions for sustainable maritime transport.

（chinadaily.com.cn）