China Delivers World’s Largest LNG-Powered Container Ship to France
A subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC) has made maritime history by delivering an ultra-large liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel container ship to France’s CMA CGM Group.
The vessel, named CMA CGM SEINE, was handed over by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. The delivery marks the completion of CSSC’s groundbreaking construction of the world’s first ultra-large dual-fuel container ship.
At 399 meters long and 61.3 meters wide, the CMA CGM SEINE can carry a staggering 220,000 tonnes of goods. It accommodates up to 23,876 TEU containers, including 2,200 standard refrigerated containers, making it one of the largest container ships ever built.
The ship’s dual-fuel power system allows it to operate on either LNG or traditional oil, providing flexibility and significant environmental benefits. With its 18,600-cubic-meter fuel bunker fully loaded with LNG, the vessel can sail nearly 20,000 nautical miles without refueling.
Compared to conventional oil-powered ships of the same size, the CMA CGM SEINE emits approximately 20% less carbon dioxide and up to 85% less nitrogen oxides. This innovation represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of global shipping.
The vessel is scheduled to embark on a Far East-Europe route starting April 18, further enhancing trade links between Asia and Europe.
This is the first of four such vessels ordered by CMA CGM Group from Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding. To date, the Chinese shipbuilder has delivered 17 container ships to the French company, including 12 dual-fuel vessels, strengthening their partnership in advancing greener maritime solutions.
