BYD cars, ships and loyalty programs
18 January 2024
Philip Shelper

The Dawn of a New Era in Electric Vehicle Transportation

In a significant move, BYD, the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has recently celebrated a milestone in its journey towards dominating the global EV market. Surpassing Tesla in 2023 to become the world’s top EV seller, BYD has now welcomed its first dual-fuelled car carrier; BYD Explorer No.1. This event marks a new chapter in the transportation of domestically produced cars and underscores BYD’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices.

BYD Explorer No.1: A Technological Marvel

BYD Explorer No.1, a remarkable 7,000 CEU LNG dual-fuel pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), had its maiden voyage ceremony on January 15 at the Port of Shenzhen. Constructed by CIMC Raffles, a subsidiary of China International Marine Containers (CIMC), this vessel stands out as the first of its kind built in a Chinese yard.

Design and Features: A Leap Towards Eco-friendly Transportation

Measuring 200 metres in length and 38 metres in width, BYD Explorer No.1 is an engineering marvel. It features 13 decks, resembling a “floating three-dimensional garage”. The ship is propelled by two sets of C-type LNG storage tanks, primarily using liquefied natural gas, significantly reducing nitrogen and sulfur oxide emissions. This environmentally friendly approach is further enhanced by the use of low-resistance methylsilane antifouling paint technology, which cuts fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 5%.

Setting New Standards in Energy Efficiency

Classified by the DNV classification society, BYD Explorer No.1 exceeds the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2025 Phase III requirements. This achievement represents a 30% reduction in the carbon intensity of new ships, setting a new benchmark in energy-efficient design.

Facilitating Global Expansion and Domestic Transport

The delivery of BYD Explorer No.1 heralds a new era for China’s transport of domestically built cars. With a capacity of 5,449 new vehicles, the ship embarked on its maiden voyage to Europe, targeting ports in the Netherlands and Germany. This step is pivotal in accelerating BYD’s car deliveries and aiding its expansion into overseas markets.

China’s Rise as an Automotive Powerhouse

In 2023, China’s strategic advancements led it to surpass Japan as the world’s largest automobile exporter. This growth, coupled with an increasing focus on pure electric and hybrid vehicles, is expected to boost demand for car carriers. Notably, Chinese shipyards have captured a significant portion of the global market for car carriers, with a staggering 98% market share in the first half of 2023.

Boosting Sales in Australia: Loyalty & Reward Co’s Strategic Role

In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Australian market, Loyalty & Reward Co has been engaged to design a BYD loyalty program. This collaboration aims to enhance customer engagement and drive sales, positioning BYD as a formidable player in Australia’s burgeoning EV market.

The BYD loyalty program will be unique in the auto industry.

Stepping into a Sustainable Future

The launch of BYD Explorer No.1 and the engagement of Loyalty & Reward Co to design a best-practice loyalty program represent significant strides in BYD’s journey towards global market dominance. These steps not only showcase BYD’s commitment to innovation and sustainability but also highlight the shifting dynamics in the global automobile industry, with China emerging as a leading player in the EV sector.

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<a href="https://loyaltyrewardco.com/author/philip/" target="_self">Philip Shelper</a>

Philip Shelper

Phil is the CEO & Founder of Loyalty & Reward Co, the leading loyalty consulting firm. Loyalty & Reward Co design, implement and operate the world’s best loyalty programs for the world’s best brands. Phil had previously worked in loyalty roles at Qantas Frequent Flyer and Vodafone. Phil is a member of several hundred loyalty programs, and a researcher of loyalty psychology and loyalty history, all of which he uses to understand the essential dynamics of what makes a successful loyalty program. Phil is the author of ‘Loyalty Programs: The Complete Guide’, the most comprehensive book on loyalty programs on the planet.

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