Nissan's Nichioh Maru Cuts Carbon Using Solar Panels and Advanced Engineering

By: Michael Hines - Published: Feb 2, 2012 • References: nissanusa and gizmag
Nissan is taking its green transportation campaign to the high seas with the new Nichioh Maru car carrier. The Nichioh Maru is designed to carry cars between the islands of Japan and is a major step forward for green ship building.

The Nichioh Maru features 281 photovoltaic panels used to provide power for the ship's LED lighting system. The engine of the Maru is diesel-powered and is computer-controlled for optimal fuel efficiency. Other eco features include a shapely hull designed to cut friction with the sea to improve fuel economy. The Nichioh Maru can carry an impressive 1,380 vehicles and is estimated to cut carbon emissions by 4,200 tons annually. Car companies are doing their part for green private transportation, but oceangoing vessels and big rigs are still horrible polluters.