China’s First Methanol-Diesel Hybrid Vessel Reduces Shipping
China Launches First Methanol-Diesel Hybrid Vessel
The “Min Hou” vessel, China’s first 130-type methanol-diesel dual-fuel container-bulk hybrid ship, has successfully completed its maiden voyage. Built by Minsheng Industrial (Group) Co., Ltd., the vessel arrived at Chongqing Guoyuan Port carrying 395 TEU containers. This innovative ship marks a significant step towards sustainable inland shipping in China.
Innovative Design and Environmental Benefits
The “Min Hou” vessel is a flagship project under Minsheng Group’s “Inland Methanol Ship Promotion Pilot Project.” It has been recognized as part of the Ministry of Transport’s first batch of green, low-carbon transportation pilot projects, making it the only initiative from Chongqing to receive this honor. The vessel features multiple design enhancements aimed at improving operational efficiency, environmental performance, and cost-effectiveness.
One of the key innovations is the integrated methanol tank, which allows the vessel to utilize methanol as its primary fuel. This choice offers significant environmental advantages. Methanol contains no sulfur and produces minimal particulate matter during combustion. The director of the Technical Department at Minsheng (Chongqing) Shipping Branch stated, “Methanol’s low-temperature combustion characteristics also contribute to reduced nitrogen oxide emissions.”
The vessel’s hydrodynamic optimizations have improved fuel efficiency, while a redesigned cargo hold layout has increased its maximum capacity to 440 TEUs. This adaptability allows for the efficient transport of both standard and wide-body containers, facilitating seamless integration between rail and inland waterways. Estimates suggest that methanol-fueled ships can reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 96%, hydrocarbons by 99%, and soot by 54% compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels.
As Minsheng Group celebrates its 100th anniversary, it remains dedicated to leading the transition toward sustainable shipping. The company has a long-standing commitment to resource efficiency, emissions reduction, and the adoption of alternative energy in vessel design and construction. Following the “Min Hou,” Minsheng Group plans to launch additional vessels, including the “Min Liang,” “Min Ju,” and “Min Tuan,” further expanding its green shipping fleet.
