China’s largest hydrogen fuel cell multi-purpose cargo ship Yuntao One launched in Zhaoqing

On 16 July, Yuntao One, a 2,000-tonne cargo vessel powered by hydrogen fuel cells, entered the water in Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province. The vessel was constructed by CSSC Guangzhou Shipbuilding Industry Company under China State Shipbuilding Corporation, with design work completed by the 605 Research Institute for Guangdong Yuntao Hydrogen Energy Technology. It ranks as the largest hydrogen-powered multi-purpose cargo ship within China.

Measuring 69.3 metres in length with a beam of 13.7 metres, the vessel boasts a maximum carrying capacity of 2,000 tonnes. Hydrogen fuel serves as its primary energy source, paired with a high-efficiency electric propulsion system that enables carbon-free navigation. An integrated energy management system carries out intelligent optimisation and precise energy distribution to secure efficient power utilisation across all operational conditions.

Advanced hull technologies reduce bow resistance and improve stern wake flow, lifting overall propulsion efficiency. The vessel is also fitted with an intelligent navigation platform incorporating collision risk alerts, bridge passage warnings and comprehensive data visualisation modules, which strengthen safety during inland voyages.

Once commissioned, Yuntao One will operate on green freight services across the Beijiang waterway. Its zero-carbon transport model supports ecological protection and high-quality development within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The vessel forms a replicable demonstration template for the hydrogen adoption, digital upgrading and green transformation of inland waterway vessels nationwide.

Shipping industry bodies continue to track the operational performance of hydrogen-powered vessels. Engineers and ship operators will accumulate real-world navigation data to refine design standards and accelerate the roll-out of clean-energy ships along inland transport routes.