On August 24, the Bei Gang Yun He 001, a 5,000-ton intelligent demonstration vessel designed for the Pinglu Canal, entered the Yujiang River section, kicking off a comprehensive testing session spanning nearly seven hours. This vessel, classified as a combined cargo and passenger ship, holds a gross tonnage of 2,983 and measures 89.9 meters in length, 15.76 meters in width, and 6.10 meters in depth. It was specifically constructed as a 5,000-ton intelligent demonstration ship to align with the operational requirements of the Pinglu Canal.

The ship stands out for its dual advantages of intelligence and environmental sustainability, marking the first time in the Xijiang River basin that intelligent engine rooms, onboard data integration platforms, and smart energy efficiency systems have been deployed. Its advanced navigation system supports three driving modes—follow-up, non-follow-up, and automatic—covering a full spectrum of navigation scenarios. Additionally, the vessel features reinforced anti-collision side structures to enhance its buoyancy and stability, thereby strengthening the safety of water transport operations.

Powered by LNG clean energy, the ship can reduce annual operating costs by over one million yuan. According to designers from Guangxi Zhongchuan Beibu Gulf Ship and Marine Engineering Design Co., Ltd., this vessel type is primarily intended for navigation along the main route of the Pinglu Canal. It has been engineered and manufactured to meet specifications for integrated intelligent platforms, smart engine systems, autonomous navigation, automated docking and undocking, and remote control applications, facilitating a seamlessly coordinated intelligent shipping network across the canal, ports, and locks.

The ship also introduces an innovative hull resistance design, featuring a vertical bow—a first for the Xijiang River basin. Prior to this, the first 5,000-ton intelligent demonstration vessel, the Bei Gang Yun He 002, had successfully launched and commenced sea trials on June 18.