Rhenus Group and Contargo have officially christened the Mannheim I+II, a 193-metre hybrid push barge combination, in Duisburg. The vessel represents a major step toward climate-friendly and automated inland waterway transport on the Rhine.
Mannheim I+II combines five Euro 6 diesel engines running on HVO100 synthetic fuel with an 840 kWh battery system and future hydrogen fuel cell capability. This hybrid drive cuts CO₂ and NOx emissions by up to 72%, or 90% when operating with HVO100. Its innovative flex-tunnel propeller design allows safe navigation even in low water, improving efficiency along the Rhine.
Rhenus also showcased remote steering technology developed under the “FernBin” research project, paving the way for semi-autonomous barge operations. The control station will be permanently installed at Rhenus’ Duisburg office as the next project phase begins in 2026.
“The Mannheim I+II is a symbol of change in inland waterway transport,” said Andreas Stöckli, member of the Rhenus management board. “It shows how innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”
