Weichai Power Unveils Singapore’s First 100% Biodiesel Harbour Ship

On July 15, 2025, Weichai Power officially launched the President 100, a 16-metre harbour ship powered entirely by 100% biodiesel (B100), in Singapore. This significant project marks a pivotal step towards sustainable maritime operations, showcasing the potential of biodiesel as a clean energy source in the shipping industry.

Details of the Launch and Collaboration

The President 100 features two Weichai WP13C450-18BF marine engines and two CCFJ20J-W5BF generator sets, which constitute its core propulsion system. The vessel was developed through a collaboration involving Weichai, the China Classification Society (Singapore), Nanyang Technological University’s Marine Energy and Sustainable Development Centre (MESD), and Pinnacle Marine. This partnership aims to advance the practical application of B100 marine fuel under real-world conditions.

Constructed by local shipyard Pinnacle Marine, the President 100 is set to undergo a comprehensive 1,000-hour continuous trial in Singapore’s port waters. The trial’s primary goal is to evaluate the long-term performance, emissions, and reliability of B100 biodiesel, generating critical data necessary for establishing future refueling, storage, and operational standards.

The Path to Maritime Decarbonization

As one of the key clean-energy solutions for maritime decarbonization, B100 biodiesel presents a viable pathway toward achieving net-zero operations in the shipping sector. The high-efficiency marine power systems developed by Weichai are specifically optimized for B100, contributing to a significant reduction in emissions. This initiative not only sets a benchmark for the global shipping industry’s transition to greener practices but also aligns with Singapore’s broader goals for sustainable maritime energy.

The launch of the President 100 is expected to serve as a reference model for Singapore’s maritime energy transition. Furthermore, it aims to contribute to the establishment of industry-wide standards for biodiesel-powered vessels, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of maritime operations.

By pioneering the use of 100% biodiesel in harbour ships, Weichai Power and its partners are positioning Singapore at the forefront of maritime innovation, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.