Geely, Zeekr Deliver 5,041 Vehicles in Lazaro Cardenas Debut

The Port of Lazaro Cardenas received the LNG-powered vessel JISU FORTUNE on Nov. 22, completing the unloading of 5,041 Geely and Zeekr vehicles at the Automotive Specialized Terminal (TEA), operated by SSA México. The operation set a new logistics milestone for the port and marked the start of planned future flows from the Chinese automaker through this key Pacific hub.

According to port authorities, the vessel arrived from Ningbo, China, and completed the discharge process in 12 operational shifts—the equivalent of four days of continuous work. Representatives from Geely and executives from SSA México attended the operation and a brief welcome ceremony, which included the presentation of a commemorative plaque marking the vessel’s first call.

SSA México reported that the JISU FORTUNE, which sails under the Liberian flag, uses liquefied natural gas as its main fuel. Company officials said the vessel meets “international standards for sustainable navigation” that shipping companies are increasingly incorporating into new fleets. SSA México added that using LNG “significantly reduces emissions during crossings,” positioning the operation within broader industry efforts to lower the environmental footprint of large-scale maritime logistics.

Geely representatives noted that the arrival “lays the groundwork for future operations in Mexico” as the automaker expands its regional distribution network. The company said continued use of the port will depend on “operational reliability and the efficiency demonstrated in this inaugural process,” highlighting the streamlined unloading across the 12 shifts. Geely added that its growth strategy in Mexico depends on “strengthening logistics capacity” to support new mobility technologies and an expanding model lineup.

Executives from SSA México emphasized that the operation demonstrates the TEA’s capacity to handle higher-volume automotive flows. During the event, personnel described the terminal as “a strategic asset for vehicle movement on the Pacific coast” due to its specialized infrastructure and handling processes. SSA México said the vessel’s arrival “reinforces the port’s role as a strategic automotive node” and enhances competitiveness in international trade.

The operation also reflects deepening commercial integration between Mexico and Asia, particularly China. According to executives present, the vehicle movement through Lazaro Cardenas “demonstrates the momentum of the automotive logistics chain” connecting both markets. Industry sources noted that the port has become a critical entry point for Asian OEMs increasing their distribution capacity in Mexico as they adopt new strategies for ocean freight, inland mobility and inventory management.