Geely: ‘World’s first’ methanol/hydrogen electric newbuild makes inaugural foray into the world

September 25, 2025, by Sara Kosmajac

Earlier this month, Chinese automaker Geely Holding splashed “the world’s first” methanol/hydrogen, hybrid electric multipurpose riverboat, marking what is claimed to be an important step in the application of this type of marine technology in China’s shipping sector.

As divulged, the 64 TEU vessel, named Yuanchun 001, hit the water for the first time in the city of Hangzhou on September 12. The newbuild has reportedly been engineered for both cargo and passenger transport.

It is understood that the launch of the newbuilding represents a ‘significant’ step for Geely’s own transition toward more sustainable operations, particularly in terms of the technology that the vessel features.

According to officials from Geely, Yuanchun 001 utilized the company’s independently developed methanol-hydrogen electric drive system that is said to enable net-zero carbon emissions throughout the unit’s lifecycle, particularly owing to the use of green methanol.

As informed, the ship was outfitted with two 280kW methanol generators and a pair of 258kWh lithium batteries, as well as electric motors. This set of systems is expected to allow for ‘flexible’ and environmentally friendly operation modes for marine use: hybrid, generator only, pure electric, or shore charging.

To be specific, Geely has shared that the estimates are that the riverboat could accomplish a reduction of 42% in energy consumption compared to similar, but diesel-powered vessels.

In addition to the latest methanol/hydrogen unit, it is worth noting that, via its subsidiary Jisu Logistics, Geely Holding Group recently launched another eco-friendly unit.

To be specific, as Offshore Energy reported at the time, Geely launched a liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered 7,000 CEU roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ship named Geely JISU Fortune at the very end of May.

As informed, the launching of the newbuild—which soon after set sail on its maiden voyage to ‘key’ European markets—was described as a ‘key’ step in the company’s strategy aimed at expanding its operations worldwide.

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