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The world’s first cargo ship powered by both methanol and electricity has set sail on its inaugural voyage, marking an important milestone in sustainable shipping.
Named Yuanchun 001, this versatile inland transportation vessel has a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 tons and can carry up to 64 standard containers. The vessel’s first journey took place yesterday at the Luodong Container Terminal in the Port of Shanghai, according to local reports.
Yuanchun 001 features a hybrid electric propulsion system developed independently by a major Chinese automotive manufacturer. It includes two 280-kilowatt methanol generator units and two lithium battery packs with a total capacity of 258 kilowatt-hours. This innovative setup offers a practical approach to transforming inland shipping toward greener practices.
Recently, Shanghai has made significant efforts to modernize its shipping industry by developing systems for green fuel use. It has pioneered the creation of a green methanol supply chain for large container ships and initiated pilot programs to explore methanol applications in inland waterways.
Additionally, a strategic partnership was announced between a leading automotive and mobility company and the port group, focusing on advancing green shipping technologies. Their collaboration aims to optimize supply chain resources and promote the adoption of sustainable solutions in port operations, including non-road mobile machinery, on-site transport vehicles, and barges operating within the port area.