On April 27, the BYD Shenzhen, the world’s largest car carrier, embarked on its maiden voyage from Taicang port in Jiangsu Province, China, carrying a staggering 7,000 electric vehicles (EVs) destined for Brazil. According to FastCompany, this massive ship, owned by Chinese automaker BYD, marks a bold step in the company’s global expansion, showcasing its dominance in the EV market and its commitment to sustainable transport solutions.

A Floating Giant Packed with Electric Power

The BYD Shenzhen is a marvel of modern engineering, stretching 722 feet long and 125 feet wide—about the length of two football fields end to end. With 16 decks, its surface area equates to roughly 20 football pitches, capable of holding up to 9,200 cars, though this voyage carries 7,000 BYD EVs. The ship cruises at an operational speed of 19 knots (22 miles per hour), powered by a dual-fuel system using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and traditional marine fuel. It also features traction batteries that supply electric energy during docking and in environmentally protected areas, reducing emissions in sensitive zones.

This voyage underscores BYD’s rapid rise in the EV industry. In 2024, the company reported a record-breaking annual revenue of $107 billion, surpassing Tesla’s $97.7 billion, and increased its exports by 72%, targeting markets like Brazil, Thailand, and Uzbekistan. The BYD Shenzhen is the fourth carrier in BYD’s growing fleet, with a fifth ship, the BYD Changsha, expected soon, designed to carry 9,200 vehicles.

Brazil’s EV Market Gets a Boost

The arrival of 7,000 BYD EVs on Brazil’s shores signals a significant shift for the region’s automotive landscape. Brazil, with its growing demand for sustainable transport, stands to benefit from this influx of affordable, high-quality electric cars. BYD’s aggressive expansion includes a $5 billion investment in new factories across Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Brazil, ensuring a steady supply chain to meet global demand. For Brazilian EV owners and enthusiasts, this means greater access to models like the BYD Dolphin and Yuan Plus, known for their competitive range and pricing.

The BYD Shenzhen’s journey also highlights the logistical feats required to transport EVs globally. Moving thousands of electric cars across oceans involves careful planning to ensure battery safety and compliance with international shipping regulations, a challenge BYD has mastered with its own fleet.

EVXL’s Take: A Milestone with a Green Heart

At EVXL, we see the BYD Shenzhen’s voyage as more than just a delivery—it’s a symbol of the EV revolution gaining unstoppable momentum. Picture this: a floating city of electric cars, cutting through the ocean, bringing cleaner air to Brazil’s bustling streets. BYD isn’t just shipping vehicles; they’re shipping a future where sustainable transport isn’t a dream but a reality. With the company outpacing Tesla in revenue and expanding its reach, it’s clear BYD is steering the EV industry toward a greener horizon. For EV enthusiasts, this is a moment to celebrate—more options, more innovation, and a planet that gets to breathe a little easier. What’s next? We’re betting on BYD’s fifth carrier to break even more records.