China's first new energy ferry embarked on its maiden voyage from Lujiabang Road Wharf in Shanghai on Wednesday.

According to Shanghai Ferry Company, the new energy vessel Shanghai Ferry 11 will undergo a two-month no-load test, followed by trial operations on the Tangdong Line. By the end of 2024, it will be operational on routes in the city's central core areas.

The Shanghai Ferry 11 applies a pure electric power system, achieving zero emissions, zero pollution, low noise, and low vibration.

Construction of the vessel began on March 22 last year at Shanghai Jiaoyun Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.

Launched on Nov. 8, 2023 the ferry can accommodate 250 passengers.

The ferry is equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries, known for their long lifespan, large capacity, safety, and stability. The total installed capacity of the ship's lithium batteries is 3,132 kWh, meeting the electricity demand for 10 hours.

Compared to traditional internal combustion engine ferries, it can save an average of 50 tons of diesel annually, and it does not produce exhaust gas, wastewater, or noise pollution, which positively impacts air quality and the ecological environment, while also reducing operating costs.