In Zhuhai, the groundbreaking ceremony for Yuchai Marine Power’s ammonia-fuelled low-speed engine test platform wasn’t just about breaking ground—it was about breaking barriers. With Headway Technology Group’s Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS) at its core, this project is a leap forward in China’s green shipping ambitions. The ceremony, attended by Yuchai Marine Power’s CEO Xupeng Li, General Manager Hui Deng, and Headway’s Executive President Liu Yudong, marked the official transition from blueprint to construction. This isn’t just another test platform; it’s a proving ground for ammonia as a marine fuel, compatible with engines from WinGD and Everllence.
Headway’s role here is pivotal. The Qingdao-based firm isn’t just supplying the AFSS—it’s delivering a turnkey solution under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model. From design to installation, Headway is overseeing the entire lifecycle, ensuring seamless integration of ammonia storage, supply modules, and safety systems. The OceanGuard® AFSS isn’t just another piece of equipment; it’s a modular, redundant, and self-diagnosing system built on Headway’s expertise in methanol, LNG, and LPG. It’s designed to handle sudden load changes, ensuring stable pressure even as engines fluctuate. This isn’t just about building a system—it’s about building confidence in ammonia as a viable marine fuel.
The project has already garnered Approval in Principle (AIP) certificates from CCS, DNV, and RINA, and it’s backed by Headway’s track record of supporting WinGD’s ammonia engines. Liu Yudong’s speech at the ceremony hit the nail on the head: “Headway will leverage its extensive expertise in marine alternative fuel technologies and integrate premium resources to advance the project with the highest standards.” This isn’t just about meeting deadlines—it’s about setting new benchmarks for quality and reliability.
The collaboration between Yuchai Marine Power and Headway is a testament to China’s growing influence in the green shipping sector. By pushing ammonia as a marine fuel, they’re not just chasing emissions targets—they’re redefining what’s possible. The test platform is more than a facility; it’s a statement of intent. As the shipping industry grapples with decarbonisation, projects like this one will shape the future of marine propulsion. The question isn’t whether ammonia will play a role—it’s how quickly the industry can scale up. With Yuchai Marine Power and Headway leading the charge, the answer might come sooner than expected.