An electric cargo vessel with a tonnage of 1,600 metric tons is launched in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: huzhoufabu]

An electric cargo vessel with a tonnage of 1,600 metric tons was recently launched in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province.

Powered by two sets of lithium iron phosphate batteries, the cargo ship designed for use on inland rivers is the first of its kind in Zhejiang. It was designed by Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group and built by Huzhou Port Shipbuilding Co Ltd.

With a speed of over 10 km/h, the ship can travel at least 270 kilometers on a single charge.

Its operation is expected to reduce fuel consumption by about 70,000 liters, which would result in a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions of about 184 tons per year.

New energy ships play a strategic role in promoting green shipping, energy conservation and environmental protection, experts say.