World’s Largest Battery-Electric Ship, China Zorrilla, Enters Service On River Plate For Buquebus

The world’s largest battery-electric vessel, China Zorilla, has entered commercial service after completing its maiden trip between Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Colonia, Uruguay, on the Rio de la Plata.

Previously known as Incat Hull 096, it was built by Australian shipbuilding company Incat Tasmania for ferry operator Buquebus.

It was launched in Buenos Aires on October 21, 2026, with the event attended by officials from Incat, Buquebus and maritime authorities from Uruguay and Argentina.

Named in honour of the late Uruguayan actress and cultural icon Concepción “China” Zorrilla, it links Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, with Buenos Aires, Argentina. Robert Clifford, chairman of Incat, said China Zorrilla is proof that high-capacity vessels can sail using battery-electric propulsion.

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