The world’s largest pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), the BYD Shenzhen, has officially departed from a shipyard in eastern China on its maiden voyage to Brazil, marking a significant milestone for both Chinese shipbuilding and the global automotive logistics sector.
Built by China Merchants Jinling Shipyard, the roll-on roll-off vessel boasts a record-breaking capacity of 9 200 car equivalent units (CEU), edging past the previous record-holder, Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora class, by 100 vehicles.
Measuring 219 metres in length and 37.7 metres in width, the vessel is powered by a state-of-the-art dual-fuel system capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG), reflecting the maritime industry’s accelerating shift towards cleaner, more energy-efficient operations.
Incorporating an array of advanced green technologies — including energy-saving main engines, a boil-off gas recondenser, hybrid battery integration, and shore power connectivity — the PCTC complies with the latest emissions standards established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The launch of the BYD Shenzhen marks a strategic move by Build Your Dreams (BYD), one of the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, to bolster its global logistics capabilities.
The vessel will play a crucial role in transporting EVs from China to key overseas markets, beginning with its inaugural route to Brazil—a region where BYD has been rapidly expanding its market presence.
As part of BYD’s vertically integrated supply chain strategy, operating its own fleet of car carriers enables the firm to mitigate shipping bottlenecks, optimise delivery schedules, and maintain strict quality controls throughout the transportation process. This enhanced logistical autonomy is expected to offer a competitive edge as the company continues to scale up exports and respond to growing international demand.
Beyond its immediate commercial impact, the launch of the BYD Shenzhen underscores China’s growing ambitions in high-tech shipbuilding and sustainable marine transport. The vessel represents a leap forward in terms of scale and efficiency, and sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible shipping in the automotive sector.
Industry analysts have pointed to the vessel as a potential trendsetter, with its advanced design likely to influence the next generation of car carriers worldwide. It also serves as a testament to China’s evolving industrial strategy, which increasingly prioritises green innovation and high-value manufacturing in the automotive and maritime sectors.
As the BYD Shenzhen charts its course across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, it carries thousands of electric vehicles, and also the vision of a cleaner, more connected global transport network—one in which China plays an increasingly central role.
