World’s First Methanol-Hydrogen Electric Riverboat “Yuanchun 001” Launched In China

The world’s first methanol-hydrogen electric multi-purpose riverboat, Yuanchun 001, has been officially launched in Hangzhou, expanding Geely Holding Group’s methanol-hydrogen electric drive technology into the marine sector.

The vessel is seen as an important step for greener river transport and the shift toward cleaner shipping. Geely explained that Yuanchun 001 is powered by its independently developed methanol-hydrogen hybrid electric drive system.

The ship can achieve carbon net-zero emissions throughout its lifecycle when powered by green methanol fuel. Observers say the launch proves that river transport can now be cleaner, quieter, and more cost-efficient.

The Yuanchun 001 is built as a 64 TEU multi-purpose river transport ship with a flexible power system. It uses dual 150kW motors, along with two 280kW methanol generators and two 258kWh lithium batteries. This setup allows the vessel to operate in various modes- hybrid, pure electric, generators only, or shore charging, depending on its operational needs.

The ship offers a range of nearly 1,500 kilometers, far greater than the 250-kilometer range of mainstream 3,000kWh-class pure electric vessels. It is also designed to reduce lifecycle costs and energy use, cutting energy consumption by 42% compared with similar diesel-powered vessels.

Geely said the vessel shows a practical and scalable way for the shipping industry to cut emissions without losing efficiency. The company also noted that the vessel combines sustainability with economic benefits, supporting the wider shift toward carbon-neutral shipping.

Press Release

Source: Maritime Shipping News