Shanghai, June 9 (Xie Mengyuan, Li Qiuying) — The world’s largest 271,000 cubic meter QC-Max ultra-large LNG (liquefied natural gas) carrier officially began construction today at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. in Shanghai, with the first ship expected to be delivered in 2028.  

The 271,000 cubic meter ultra-large LNG vessel ranks at the top of the industry in overall performance. The ship is 344 meters long, and key features such as cargo capacity, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and navigation safety have been upgraded comprehensively. Compared to mainstream 174,000 cubic meter conventional ships, this vessel increases cargo capacity by 57% and keeps daily cargo boil-off to 0.087%, effectively reducing LNG storage and transportation losses. The hull is equipped with a high-efficiency dual-fuel propulsion system, combining large carrying capacity, lower energy consumption, low carbon emissions, and reliable safety. It can dock at most major LNG terminals worldwide and is compatible with a wide range of deep-sea routes.  

Thanks to the release of enterprise production capacity, China’s share in the global LNG ship market has exceeded 30%. Currently, Hudong-Zhonghua has nearly 60 LNG ships on order. By capacity, the company ranks first in the world, with production schedules extending beyond 2030. Their product lineup covers all types of conventional, large, and ultra-large LNG carriers. (End)