China delivers world's first methanol dual‑fuel intelligent super‑large oil tanker
China has officially delivered the world's first methanol dual‑fuel intelligent very‑large crude carrier (VLCC), named *Kaituo*. The vessel, independently designed and built by CSSC Dalian Shipbuilding, was handed over in Dalian, Liaoning, marking a major milestone in green, low‑emission maritime engineering.
*Kaituo* is the eighth‑generation VLCC developed by CSSC Dalian Shipbuilding and is classified by the China Classification Society. The ship measures 333 meters (≈1,093 ft) in length and can carry roughly 2.1 million barrels of crude oil. It features strong seaworthiness, excellent port adaptability, low emissions, and advanced intelligent‑operation capabilities. The vessel will operate on the Middle East-Far East route.
For propulsion, the tanker uses a domestically developed methanol dual‑fuel main engine and a methanol fuel‑supply system. Compared with conventional fuel, carbon‑dioxide emissions are reduced by up to 92%, while sulfur‑oxide emissions drop by 99%. This makes *Kaituo* one of the cleanest large‑tonnage tankers currently in operation.
The ship is also equipped with a domestically developed intelligent ship‑platform system, an intelligent liquid‑cargo management and control system, and an intelligent engine‑room operation‑and‑maintenance system. These technologies significantly improve operational efficiency, safety, and overall economic performance.
During the design and construction process, the project team secured 71 patents and set multiple new records. Key performance indicators - including cruising speed, fuel consumption, maneuverability, emission standards, methanol‑fuel system performance, and intelligent‑system capabilities - all exceeded design‑specification requirements. The vessel was delivered four months ahead of schedule.
CSSC Dalian Shipbuilding, part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, is one of China's leading shipbuilders specializing in large commercial vessels, offshore engineering equipment, and advanced marine‑power systems. The company has played a central role in developing next‑generation green‑energy ships, including methanol‑powered and intelligent‑operation platforms. The delivery of *Kaituo* demonstrates China's growing capabilities in high‑end, low‑emission maritime engineering.
