Geely launches first methanol-hydrogen hybrid electric vessel

The 64 TEU multi-purpose riverboat is powered by two 280 kW methanol generators, two 150 kW electric motors and supported by a 258 kWh lithium battery pack. The arrangement allows for multiple operating modes, including pure electric, hybrid and shore-charged configurations. The vessel has a reported range of nearly 1,500 km, significantly exceeding the 250 km range typical of 3,000 kWh-class pure battery-electric vessels. Energy consumption is stated to be around 42% lower than that of comparable diesel-powered ships.

By using green methanol, the vessel is intended to demonstrate the feasibility of carbon-neutral inland waterway transport. The Yuanchun 001 is being positioned as evidence that methanol-hydrogen hybrid systems can combine operational flexibility with reduced lifecycle emissions and costs when compared to conventional tonnage.

Geely has been active in methanol fuel and hybrid drive technology for more than two decades, with experience gained largely in the road transport sector. The company reports over 50,000 methanol-hydrogen hybrid vehicles in operation and has been closely involved in developing a supporting refuelling infrastructure within China. By June 2025, more than 800 methanol refuelling stations are expected to be operational, with plans to expand this network to over 4,000 by 2027.

The launch of the Yuanchun 001 demonstrates a first step in transferring this technology to the marine sector. If proven viable in commercial operation, it may provide an additional pathway for inland and potentially coastal shipping operators seeking practical alternatives to diesel.