BYD Hefei Embarks on Maiden Voyage, Expanding EV Shipping Fleet
BYD Hefei set sail today, marking another milestone for the Shenzhen-based EV maker as it unleashed its third roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel with the capacity to carry 7,000 cars. With plans to have a fleet of eight carriers by the beginning of next year, BYD is making significant strides in expanding its shipping capabilities.
BYD is known for its commitment to vertical integration across all aspects of its business. In addition to manufacturing electric vehicles, the company also produces its battery packs and cells, owns lithium mines, and even operates an EV insurance company in China. This comprehensive approach allows BYD to control all parts of the EV supply chain and ensure a seamless experience for customers.
The launch of BYD Hefei follows the success of the company’s previous vessels, including BYD Explorer No.1 and BYD Changzhou, which have already made significant journeys carrying thousands of EVs. BYD Hefei completed construction in September 2024 and underwent successful trial sails before officially joining the BYD fleet today. The vessel is currently sailing under the flag of Hong Kong to Shanghai, according to VesselFinder.
All eight BYD car carriers are designed as ro-ro vessels, allowing for efficient loading and unloading of vehicles via built-in ramps. The new vessel measures 199.9 meters in length, 38 meters in beam, and has a design draft of 9 meters. With a design speed of 18.5 knots, equivalent to 34 km per hour, BYD Hefei is the company’s first vessel named after the city where production occurs.
In 2024, BYD exported 417,204 EVs, marking a 71.9% increase from the previous year. The company’s global sales of passenger vehicles reached 4.25 million in 2024, with exports accounting for approximately 10% of total sales. This growth in exports highlights BYD’s expanding presence in the international EV market.
Overall, the launch of BYD Hefei and the continued expansion of the company’s shipping fleet demonstrate BYD’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the electric vehicle industry. With a focus on vertical integration and efficiency, BYD is poised to continue leading the way in the global transition to electric transportation.
