Geely Continues to Develop Methanol, Claims It is Lighter than Electric Vehicles

HANGZHOU, KOMPAS.com – The Chinese automaker Geely has reaffirmed its commitment to developing vehicles using the alternative fuel methanol. This move is notable, given the simultaneous rapid growth of battery electric vehicles both in China and globally. For context, methanol is the simplest form of alcohol. The clear liquid is easily evaporated and is commonly used as an industrial solvent, fuel, and antifreeze. According to Carnewschina, vehicle weight differences are considered an important factor in efficiency, particularly for certain applications. According to Li, methanol has an energy density far higher than lithium-ion batteries, claimed to be more than ten times greater. Moreover, the lighter vehicle weight also impacts more efficient energy consumption, especially for commercial or heavy transport vehicles that require significant power. Nevertheless, Li acknowledges that battery electric vehicles have developed rapidly and are widely used in China. However, he believes there is still room for alternative technologies to continue developing. Government Policy On the other hand, the development of alternative fuels in China is also supported by the government, not only for battery electric vehicles or new energy vehicles (NEV) such as PHEVs. This is reflected in the policy to accelerate the green economic transition released in July 2024. In that policy, the government encourages the construction of various energy infrastructures, from electric charging, battery swapping, to the development of hydrogen and methanol. For a Long Time Geely has been developing methanol-fuelled vehicle technology for more than two decades.