World’s First 24,000 TEU Methanol Dual-Fuel Container Ship Launched in Nantong

[Administrator]

On December 31, 2025, the world's first 24,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ship, built by Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering under COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry, was successfully launched. The milestone vessel fills a gap in China's design and construction capability for ultra-large methanol dual-fuel container ships, offering a Chinese contribution to the global maritime industry's low-carbon transition.

The vessel is among the largest and most technologically advanced green container ships in operation today. Measuring 399.99 meters in length, its deck area is comparable to approximately 3.5 standard football fields. Equipped with a methanol dual-fuel propulsion system, the ship is designed for both high efficiency and low emissions, enabling carbon-neutral operations throughout its voyages.

Fully independently designed and built by Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering, the vessel integrates multiple industry-leading technologies. The project overcame key technical challenges, including intelligent and efficient construction of ultra-large hull structures and the structural safety design of methanol fuel tanks. These breakthroughs provide a strong foundation for the independent development and large-scale construction of clean-energy vessels in China.

As one of China's first batch of "National Excellence-Level Smart Factories," Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering has pursued innovation-driven and lean manufacturing development. The company has advanced smart manufacturing and green transformation, establishing multiple automated and intelligent production lines that have significantly improved shipbuilding processes and efficiency. It has delivered a wide range of high-end vessels, including ultra-large container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and car carriers, filling several domestic and international technological gaps.

In response to the global shipping industry's shift toward green and low-carbon development, COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry continues to prioritize technological innovation and core shipbuilding capabilities, focusing on green, low-carbon, and digital-intelligent transformation. The company aims to provide global clients with more environmentally friendly, intelligent, and safe maritime equipment.