China’s latest inland cargo barge, the Yuanchum 001, isn’t just another vessel—it’s a bold step toward decarbonising river transport. Launched earlier this month, this 64 TEU barge marries methanol and hydrogen-electric power, a first for inland shipping. The technology, already proven in over 50,000 Geely hybrid vehicles, now faces its maritime test.
The Yuanchum 001 isn’t just a tech demo—it’s a workhorse. Equipped with a 150kW dual motor, two 280kW methanol generators, and two 258kWh lithium batteries, it’s built for real-world operations. The vessel can switch between four modes: hybrid, generator, pure electric, and even shore power recharging. That flexibility means it can tackle long-distance hauls, heavy loads, and sensitive environments—all while slashing energy use by 42% compared to diesel counterparts.
Geely isn’t just dipping its toes into maritime tech—it’s diving in. The company has spent 20 years refining methanol technology, and now it’s bringing that expertise to the water. The Yuanchum 001’s range of nearly 1,000 miles dwarfs the 250 km limit of today’s pure electric barges. This isn’t just about range—it’s about reliability. For inland shipping, where charging infrastructure is still catching up, hybrid power means fewer range anxieties and more operational freedom.
China’s push for electric inland shipping is gaining momentum, with plans for recharging stations along the Yangtze River. The Yuanchum 001 fits right into this vision, offering a bridge between today’s diesel fleets and a zero-emission future. But Geely isn’t stopping at methanol-hydrogen. The company is also expanding its maritime logistics footprint, with two PCTCs already in operation for transporting EVs, hydrogen, and natural-gas-powered vehicles.
Geely’s ambitions don’t end at the water’s edge. The company is eyeing European markets, with its second LNG-fueled PCTC, the Jisu Glory, recently setting sail for Belgium and the UK. This vessel, designed to carry both traditional and new energy vehicles, underscores Geely’s commitment to sustainable logistics.
The Yuanchum 001 is more than a vessel—it’s a signal. It shows that maritime decarbonisation isn’t just about big ships and deep seas. Inland shipping, often overlooked, is ripe for transformation. And with players like Geely stepping in, the pace of change is accelerating.
This isn’t just about one barge or one company. It’s about a shift in how we think about maritime energy. The Yuanchum 001 proves that hybrid power isn’t a compromise—it’s a solution. And if Geely’s track record in automotive innovation is any indication, this is just the beginning.