China Unveils World’s Largest Methanol-Powered Engine
China has launched the world’s largest methanol-powered dual fuel engine in Shanghai, marking a significant step toward greener maritime technology. Developed entirely by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation, this massive engine weighs nearly 1,953 tons and boasts a maximum power output of 64,500 kilowatts.
A “Giant Heart” for Vessels
Dubbed the “giant heart” of vessels, the engine is set to make its debut on a 16,000-TEU container ship. Its advanced digital smart control system allows it to generate 95 percent of its power using methanol fuel, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions by over 7.5 percent compared to traditional engines.
“To put it into perspective, if the engine runs 300 days a year, the reduction in carbon emissions is equivalent to the total emissions of 72,000 gasoline-powered passenger cars annually,” said Dong Jingjin, project manager of the methanol engine project at the China State Shipbuilding Corporation.
Paving the Way for Green Maritime Transformation
The introduction of this methanol-powered engine comes amid a global push for cleaner energy solutions in the water transport industry. The engine is poised to meet the growing market demand for eco-friendly maritime technologies.
“Engines of this type have now been successfully installed on container ships and bulk carriers,” Dong added. “The market demand for methanol engines is considerable, and we plan to develop different methanol engines in the next two to three years. We hope to apply them to more types of chemical carriers and specialized vessels, providing more environmentally friendly and efficient power solutions.”
A Step Toward Sustainable Shipping
This development underscores China’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices in the shipping industry. By harnessing methanol—a cleaner-burning alternative fuel—the new engine represents a significant advancement in maritime technology, potentially setting new standards for ships worldwide.
