Geely has introduced its first methanol-powered race car, successfully tested under harsh winter conditions, alongside the launch of its “Green Methanol Racing Plan.” This initiative seeks to advance sustainable methanol technology in motorsports and drive the industry toward renewable energy adoption.
The race car features Geely’s proprietary Aurobay-DHE20TDM methanol engine, which runs on M100 methanol fuel and meets China’s National VI-B emissions standards. With a thermal efficiency exceeding 46%, a 15:1 compression ratio, and performance surpassing traditional gasoline engines, the engine delivers high torque across diverse racing scenarios while significantly cutting hydrocarbon and particulate emissions.
Designed for endurance racing, the methanol engine ensures reliable operation in extreme cold and supports rapid refueling. Geely plans additional testing on domestic circuits later this year to further optimize its performance.
Geely’s successful methanol race car testing
Geely plans to debut a fleet of methanol-powered race cars in the “Geely Super Cup PRO” series under its new energy category in 2026. The company also intends to expand its involvement in renewable energy motorsport projects to align with emerging racing trends.
This commitment reflects Geely Chairman Li Shufu’s stance at the 2024 Wuzhen Automotive Forum, where he identified methanol-powered vehicles as a vital part of the new energy landscape. Since 2005, Geely has tackled challenges in methanol engine technology, enabling large-scale adoption in cities like Xi’an, Jincheng, and Guiyang.
Methanol: A Versatile Fuel Driving Sustainability in Energy and Transportation
Methanol stands out as a renewable fuel with efficient combustion, low emissions, and ease of storage and transport. It also enables energy storage from wind and solar sources, bolstering sustainable energy utilization. Geely’s efforts include a green methanol production facility in Inner Mongolia with a 50,000-ton annual capacity, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and supporting the renewable energy ecosystem.
Beyond motorsports, Geely is exploring methanol applications in commercial vehicles, integrating methanol engines with electric drivetrains. These hybrid systems significantly cut emissions compared to diesel, addressing carbon footprints in logistics and public transit.
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