Shanghai (ZXZC)- On August 29, SAIC Motor, a prominent Chinese automobile conglomerate, announced a significant stride in its maritime endeavors as its tailored-for-purpose maiden ocean-going car carrier (roll-on/roll-off vessel)., constructed by China State Shipbuilding Corporation's Jiangnan Shipyard (Group) Co., Ltd. (CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard), was officially launched.

Photo credit: SAIC Motor

This groundbreaking vessel, using LNG (liquefied natural gas) dual-fuel and boasting a capacious capacity for 7,600 vehicles, is set to commence operations next year. It has been strategically designated to ply both the established European route and the upcoming Australia-New Zealand route.

SAIC Motor also revealed ambitious plans for the years 2024 through 2026, wherein an impressive fleet of twelve new ocean-going carriers, spanning 7,600, 7,800, and 9,000-car capacities, will gradually integrate into SAIC Anji Logistics' maritime fleet.

Simultaneously, SAIC Motor is committed to fostering enduring partnerships with global automotive logistics entities, including China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited and Wallenius Wilhelmsen Group, to collectively facilitate the accelerated expansion of China's indigenous brands on the international stage.

The maritime foray underscores SAIC Anji Logistics' position as the world's largest automotive logistics company, with an extensive distribution network encompassing nearly 600 domestic cities and over 100 countries worldwide. Its annual shipping volume surmounts millions of vehicles.

Presently, SAIC Anji Logistics commands an automobile fleet that boasts a diverse assortment of 30 ships including 11 river vessels, 11 coastal ships, and 8 dedicated foreign-trade ships. This maritime prowess translates into the operation of seven international routes, connecting Southeast Asia, Mexico, South America's West Coast, Europe, and beyond.

SAIC Motor affirms that the strategic maritime investments are largely propelled by the impressive performance of its overseas operations. Public data indicates that from January to July of this year, the group’s overseas sales reached 630,000 vehicles, marking a 31.6% year-on-year growth. Notably, SAIC Motor's self-owned MG brand achieved remarkable success, with sales totaling 135,000 units in the first seven months, signifying a 148% year-on-year spike. Besides, SAIC Motor's overseas sales in 2022 soared to 1.017 million units, which leapt 45.9% year-on-year.