Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced last week that it has added a new solar-powered hybrid cargo ship to its shipping fleet.

The company said that the ship is part of its new mid-term environmental action plan known as the Nissan Green Program 2016. In a statement, Nissan said that “aiming for a leading low corporate carbon footprint is a key pillar of the Nissan Green Program.

The Nichio Maru is an energy efficient coastal car carrier that will join Nissan’s fleet to deliver completed vehicles to international shipping ports all over Japan. This is the first ship in Japan to install solar panels to drastically reduce the amount of diesel the ship’s operations require.

The hybrid cargo ship is propelled by an electronically controlled diesel engine that will decrease fuel consumption by 1,400 tons annually and save 4,200 of CO2 emissions as well.

The ship additionally uses ultra efficient LED lighting in the ship’s hold and living quarters among other energy efficient devices like a hull coated with low friction paint designed to help it glide easily through the water.

The Nichio Maru joins the City of St. Petersburg as the second eco-friendly ship in Nissan’s domestic fleet. It will be used to transport the automakers 100 percent electric vehicle, the Nissan Leaf, as well as other popular models.

Via: Atissun