China's first hybrid-powered catamaran delivered in Haimen

The Dawanqu Yihao, China's first gas-electric hybrid-powered luxury catamaran -- built by the Haimen boatyard operated by China Merchants Industry Holdings Co -- was delivered on Aug 14 in Haimen district, Nantong, according to local officials.

The vessel, named after the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, will serve as the first high-end passenger ship in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.

It measures 71.88 meter in length and 18.72 m in width and is capable of carrying 350 passengers at an operating speed of 14 knots. It offers various functional areas for recreation, including a sightseeing area, a mini museum, a sci-tech store and a theater.

The interior decoration was designed by the European research and development center of China Merchants Industry Holdings, with all the materials domestically produced. Its chip and hybrid power system were also wholly developed by Chinese companies.

Officials said the vessel is the first of its kind in China, with a hybrid DC grid electric propulsion system co-developed by China Merchants Industry Holdings and Chinese train maker CRRC. The system enables it to operate with zero emissions, no pollution and little noise.

To date, the Haimen boatyard operated by China Merchants Industry Holdings has finished building the first China-built cruise ship for polar expeditions, as well as the Dawanqu Yihao, with another three polar cruise ships under construction.

Officials said the yard is working to expand its product range, from coastal cruise ships, inland river passenger ships and polar cruise ships, to small and medium-size liners.