Electric tour boat, powered by batteries from CATL, begins operation in China for tourist excursions
In a significant stride for clean maritime transport, CATL's advanced marine battery system has been deployed in China's first pure electric tourist vessel, the Yujian 77. This vessel, now in service in Xiamen Bay, is set to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 400 tons annually.
The Yujian 77, measuring 49 meters in length and 14.5 meters in width, can carry 358 passengers at a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour. Powered by CATL's cutting-edge marine battery system, it boasts a battery capacity of 3,918 kWh and a range of 100 kilometers, making it suitable for multiple consecutive operational routes in Xiamen Bay.
Advanced Technologies at Work
CATL's marine battery system leverages several innovative technologies. The system adopts CTP (Cell To Pack) technology, eliminating traditional modules and enhancing energy density and production efficiency. It also employs NP (No Propagation) technology, a cell-level thermal runaway prevention measure that significantly improves safety in harsh marine conditions.
The system's battery pack energy density exceeds 140 Wh/kg, and it is equipped with an integrated CCS (Combined Charging System), achieving high-voltage charging capabilities. Moreover, the Yujian 77, like the battery pack it uses, has an IP68 protection rating and can withstand up to 1,296 hours of salt spray testing, ensuring durability and stable performance in the challenging marine environment.
A Step Forward in Electrification
The operation of the Yujian 77 validates the feasibility of pure electric technology in near-shore waters, marking a significant milestone in CATL's maritime ambitions. CATL's future plans include expanding this marine battery technology to more vessels, enhancing energy density further, and integrating high-voltage fast charging solutions for better operational flexibility.
With a global market share of power batteries at 38.1 percent in January-May, according to South Korean market research firm SNE Research, CATL's scale and R&D capacity, including hubs in China and Europe and ongoing production expansion, position it well to lead the battery electrification of marine transport.
Looking to the Skies
CATL's advancements in battery technology are not limited to maritime applications. In April 2023, the company unveiled its Condensed Battery, with potential use in electric aircraft. In June 2024, CATL successfully test-flew a 4-ton civil electric aircraft, and plans to release an 8-ton civil electric aircraft between 2027 and 2028.
In summary, CATL’s marine battery system, with its advanced lithium-ion innovations like CTP design and NP safety measures, serves electric passenger vessels with high energy, endurance, and marine-grade durability, signalling a strategic push toward widespread marine electrification. The Yujian 77, now cruising the waters of Xiamen Bay, is a testament to this commitment.
The expansion of CATL's marine battery technology extends beyond vessels, as they are also venturing into the aviation sector. In 2023, they unveiled the Condensed Battery, potentially suitable for electric aircraft, and in 2024, they successfully test-flew a 4-ton civil electric aircraft. Future plans include releasing an 8-ton civil electric aircraft between 2027 and 2028, demonstrating a fusion of environmental-science and technology innovations in the finance-driven business of both maritime and air transport.
