China bets on electric ships in push to decarbonise waterways, expand EV success
South China Morning Post
by Carol YangFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China is leveraging its strengths in battery technology and shipbuilding to lead the charge in electrifying maritime transport, particularly focusing on transitioning commercial cargo vessels from domestic waterways. This shift aligns with Beijing’s ambitious decarbonization goals—peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving neutrality by 2060—while also expanding its dominance in green transportation beyond land to waterways.
Currently, China operates over 1,000 vessels powered by electricity or alternative fuels on its extensive network of inland rivers. While most early efforts have focused on short-haul passenger ships, the focus is now shifting toward cargo vessels. For instance, Fujian Shipbuilding Industry Group recently launched a pure-electric cargo ship capable of transporting up to 1,000 tonnes of freight on the Min River, with a range of 200 kilometers per charge. Similarly, CATL, the world’s leading EV battery producer, has partnered with Jining Energy to develop electric vessels with a load capacity of 2,000 tonnes and a range of up to 270 kilometers on a single charge.
These advancements highlight China’s strategic push to dominate the emerging green shipping sector. By leveraging its expertise in battery technology and shipbuilding, the country is not only reducing emissions but also reinforcing its position as a global leader in clean energy innovation. While the focus remains largely on domestic waterways for now, these developments signal a promising step toward decarbonizing international maritime transport.
This push matters globally because it demonstrates how industrial strengths can be harnessed to drive sustainability. China’s progress in electrifying shipping not only contributes to its national climate goals but also sets a precedent for other countries seeking to decarbonize their waterways. By investing in electric cargo vessels, China is showcasing the potential of clean energy technology to transform industries beyond transportation, offering a model for global adoption.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/22/2026