On June 12, the Glovis Lighthouse, the world's largest roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) car carrier, set sail from the Xiaomo International Logistics Port (小漠国际物流港) in the Shenzhen-Shanwei Special Cooperation Zone (深汕特别合作区).
Loaded with over 8,000 Chinese-made vehicles, the giant vessel is now en route to Europe. The Shanwei Maritime Safety Administration provided high-efficiency public services to ensure the seamless and safe departure for this major export voyage.
As the global demand for China's new energy vehicles continues to surge, dedicated Ro-Ro maritime capacity has become crucial to unimpeded automotive exports worldwide. Built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (上海外高桥造船厂), Glovis Lighthouse is a state-of-the-art giant car carrier. At 230 meters long and 40 meters wide, the vessel features 14 dedicated cargo decks, including five adjustable decks. With a maximum capacity of 10,800 vehicles, it leads the world in cargo capacity among vessels of its type.
Due to potential risks associated with the vessel's huge size, the Shanwei Maritime Safety Administration collaborated with experts and pilot agencies to conduct a thorough navigation safety assessment. They formulated customized port access and emergency plans to cope with severe convective weather and heavy rainfall.
Additionally, the authority arranged experienced pilots and two patrol boats for on-site escort. It also deployed smart maritime systems, CCTV, and VHF radios to remind nearby vessels to keep a safe distance.
"We will continuously enhance our supervision and service efficiency," said an official from the Shanwei Maritime Safety Administration. This effort is intended not only to support the Shenzhen-Shanwei Special Cooperation Zone in building a world-class automotive industrial hub, but also to boost the global expansion of Chinese automakers.
Author | Dong Han
Photo | Nanfang Plus
