China builds VLGC that is compatible with both Panama Canal locks

The canal operates on a stepwise system. Vessels pass through as if riding an elevator, their hulls raised and lowered through successive locks. The canal relies mainly on rainfall stored in artificial lakes; without enough water, the locks cannot function properly.

The vessel has an LPG dual-fuel main engine and shaft generator. Compared with conventional fuel oil, running on LPG cuts carbon dioxide emissions by around 20 percent and sulfur oxides and particulate matter by roughly 90 percent. The ship therefore complies with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships set by the International Maritime Organization, as well as the FuelEU Maritime regulation.