World’s First Methanol-Powered Car Carrier Ship Begins Journey From Hong Kong

The maiden voyage of the world's first methanol-fuelled car carrier has begun, marking a milestone for Hong Kong’s ambitions to emerge as a hub for green marine fuel, South China Morning Post reported.

The vessel, named CM Hong Kong, was commissioned by China Merchants Group and constructed in Jiangsu province.

It departed from Tsing Yi on Sunday (28 September) morning under the Hong Kong flag.

At the inauguration, Hong Kong chief secretary for administration, Eric Chan Kwok-ki, stressed that the government was committed to helping the shipping industry adopt cleaner energy sources.

He highlighted that between February and mid-September this year, the city had already supplied over 130,000 tonnes of green marine fuels to international ships.

Chan also revealed plans for tax concessions on methanol used by outbound vessels and confirmed that authorities had invited proposals for a green fuel storage project in Tsing Yi South.

Looking ahead, Hong Kong aims to improve the quality of its bunkering services, collaborate with overseas ports, and expand trade in sustainable fuels.

The newly launched ship measures 220 metres in length and 38 metres in width, with 13 decks capable of transporting up to 9,300 vehicles.

Operating on a dual-fuel system, it is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70 percent.

Hong Kong Transport and Logistics Secretary Mable Chan added that the ship would carry China-made electric vehicles for export to Europe.

In his recent policy address, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu reaffirmed that Hong Kong would prioritise bunkering facilities for green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen.

By next year, all ships supplying methanol bunkers in local waters will be mandated to use mass flow meters to enhance efficiency.

The development comes as the International Maritime Organization pushes for global shipping to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

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