New energy models dominate Zhijiang shipbuilding park's orders

By Yan Wanqin.

Yichang Shipbuilding Industrial Park in Zhijiang has orders for more than 400 ships, 95 percent of which are green new-energy models. The park launched 14 vessels in the first quarter, 11 of which were new-energy models. Production is booked through 2028.
 

Companies in a shipbuilding hub along the mid-upper Yangtze are pivoting to green and smart vessel production through coordinated efforts in production stability, market expansion, research and development, and industrial upgrading. They aim to achieve high-end, intelligent, and low-carbon manufacturing.

Zhijiang Jiangbo Shipbuilding, a key player in the park, is delivering seven 130-meter pure electric bulk carriers. The company is also finalizing its "Xinghe" series of autonomous leisure boats for the water tourism market.

To cut costs, save energy, and improve efficiency, the company has implemented smart cutting, high-precision welding, and real-time production monitoring.

Neighboring Yichang Xinhui Shipbuilding secured orders for two high-end new-energy cruise ships worth 300 million yuan (US$44.2 million), now in final testing. Over 80 percent of its current orders are for green vessels, including LNG, methanol-hybrid, and fully electric models, with production scheduled through the third quarter of 2026.

A partnership with Wuhan University of Technology helped Xinhui obtain a utility model patent in May. Its latest cruise ship cuts energy use by over 20 percent, while a hybrid bulk carrier reduces emissions by more than 30 percent.

Also in the park, Dongchuan Heavy Machinery focuses on LNG vessels for container and bulk cargo.