On May 8, the world’s first catamaran integrating a “solar + sail” hybrid electric propulsion system and rudderless steering control technology, independently designed and built by China — the “Haiwei Liuliu” — was successfully launched at Hangzhou Qianhang Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. The vessel integrates rudderless steering technology and a controllable pitch propeller (CPP) system, achieving a high degree of integration between clean energy and intelligent control, marking an important step for China in leading the global green intelligent ship sector.
It is reported that the “Haiwei Liuliu” is the first domestic catamaran to apply this innovative rudderless technology, fully demonstrating China’s strong capabilities in the design, construction, and key technology breakthroughs of new energy vessels. Facing the challenge that no existing inspection standards were available for multiple innovative technologies, the maritime authorities proactively provided front-line services, taking the lead in organizing a joint攻关 effort involving key ship inspection personnel, designers, and the shipyard. They assisted the enterprise in overcoming technical difficulties one by one and guided the improvement of the quality self-inspection system, ensuring the vessel fully complied with technical specifications and safety standards, thereby guaranteeing the successful launch of this “world’s first” ship type.
To ensure the safe launch of the “Haiwei Liuliu,” maritime authorities stationed personnel at the shipyard in advance, conducting comprehensive inspections of key facilities such as airbags, towing equipment, and mooring bollards, and verifying safety measures and emergency plans item by item. In response to the high risk of yaw during the launching of a rudderless vessel, the maritime authorities specifically guided the shipyard to equip additional lateral tugboats and emergency braking devices. On the day of the launch, maritime personnel were on-site throughout the process, monitoring hydrological and meteorological changes in real time, and coordinating the temporary avoidance of upstream and downstream vessels. Ultimately, the entire launching operation was completed safely, smoothly, and successfully.
The successful launch of the “Haiwei Liuliu” not only accumulates valuable experience for the inspection and supervision of new green vessels in China but also provides solid maritime support for the green transformation of the shipping industry in Hangzhou and the entire country. It is revealed that, in the next steps, the maritime authorities will continue to monitor subsequent stages such as the vessel’s mooring tests and sea trials, persistently supporting the design and construction of new energy vessels, and contributing to the high-quality development of the regional shipping economy and the building of a green, intelligent, and safe “maritime power.”
