Posted on August 12, 2025
This year marks just three years since the shipbuilder’s founding, yet the company is already moving toward becoming the world’s largest and most comprehensive single shipbuilding base. The early 2025 commissioning of its so-called “Future Factory” has boosted production efficiency, enabling steady output and a rhythm of deliveries across container ships, bulk carriers, and oil tankers.
In recent months, Hengli delivered its first 306,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) very large crude carrier (VLCC), entirely designed and built in-house. The shipyard also launched its first 181,000 DWT bulk carrier—currently the largest vessel globally that can be constructed and launched from a slipway. The company confirmed it is the first of this tonnage built on a slipway in China.
At present, Hengli has more than 70 vessels under construction, with confirmed orders stretching to 2029. Once the yard reaches full operational capacity, it is expected to process 2.3 million tons of steel plates annually.
The “Future Factory” includes two docks, each measuring 860 meters, that have been brought into full operation. The shipyard integrates large-scale use of advanced technologies, including automated welding robots, dynamic steel plate printing, and intelligent production lines capable of performing automated cutting, welding, grinding, sorting, and warehousing. Large-block and grand-block assembly methods have been fully implemented to enhance construction efficiency and vessel size capabilities.
Hengli Heavy Industry
The company’s ambitions extend beyond hull construction. Hengli’s marine engine division is gaining attention in the industry for its in-house production capabilities. In September 2024, Hengli delivered its first domestically produced marine engine, addressing a persistent bottleneck in the sector often referred to as “ships waiting for engines, engines waiting for shafts.”
The second phase of Hengli’s engine production facility began operating last month. This expansion includes the rollout of China’s first domestically produced LPG dual-fuel 6G60 engine, with delivery scheduled soon. The yard is also producing a methane dual-fuel 8G95 engine, which fills a gap in the country’s engine manufacturing capabilities.
When engine operations reach full capacity, Hengli projects annual production of 180 units, making it China’s largest single marine engine manufacturing facility. The range will cover G95 and below, with production capacity spanning four low-carbon and zero-carbon dual-fuel types: LNG, LPG, methanol, and ammonia.
