(Yicai) Oct. 21 -- The world's first general cargo vessel powered by both methanol and electricity has embarked on its maiden voyage, officially commencing commercial operations.

Yuanchun 001, a dual-purpose inland transport vessel with a maximum payload of 1,500 tons and a cargo capacity of up to 64 standard containers, held a maiden voyage ceremony at the Luodong Container Terminal of the Port of Shanghai yesterday, Shanghai Observer reported.

Yuanchun 001 is equipped with a hybrid electric propulsion system independently developed by Chinese automotive giant Geely Holding Group. It features two 280-kilowatt methanol generator sets and two 258-kilowatt-hour lithium battery packs, a practical solution for the green transformation of inland shipping.

In recent years, Shanghai has actively focused on the green transformation of the shipping industry by building a green fuel application system. It has taken the lead in promoting the construction of a green methanol supply chain for large container ships and exploring pilot applications of methanol in inland shipping.

Geely and Shanghai International Port Group signed a strategic agreement on green shipping yesterday. The pair pledged to integrate their supply chain resources and advantages to enhance cooperation in green port technologies and operations, focusing on application scenarios, such as non-road mobile machinery, on-site transport vehicles, and barges for the port area.

Editor: Futura Costaglione