On 6 May, HD Hyundai and A.P. Moller – Maersk signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a decarbonization collaboration, while HD Hyundai plans to expand the use of Maersk’s integrated logistics services across its affiliates.
Since 2021, HD Hyundai has received orders for a total of 19 methanol-powered container ships from the Danish carrier, while last year, the South Korean shipbuilder successfully delivered the world’s first methanol-powered ultra-large container vessel.
Initially, the two companies will conduct a six-month trial applying Avikus’ HiNAS, an advanced navigation solution for energy-efficient vessel operations, and HD Hyundai Marine Solution’s OCEANWISE route optimisation on a Maersk container vessel built and delivered by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The purpose of this trial is to validate the fuel-saving and greenhouse gas emission-reduction impacts of optimised navigation systems.
The two partners aim to explore cooperation in the field of ship retrofitting for decarbonisation, including optimising engine efficiency, increasing container ship cargo capacity, and retrofitting dual-fuel propulsion systems and will also collaborate on joint research to examine the feasibility of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system.
Moreover, HD Hyundai will strengthen its global supply chain by leveraging Maersk’s integrated logistics services. This includes expanding ocean freight volumes supported by Maersk’s East-West network and utilising the carrier’s capabilities across airfreight services and land transportation, as well as warehousing infrastructure.
The initial phase of the partnership will focus on providing tailored logistics solutions for HD Hyundai’s affiliates, including HD Hyundai XiteSolution and HD Hyundai Marine Solution. The implementation will be gradually rolled out across other affiliates, further enhancing the stability and agility of the company’s global supply chain.
“We will rapidly advance the world’s best shipbuilding technologies with the goal of building a sustainable maritime logistics network that ensures safety, low-emissions, and optimal efficiency,” stated Chung Kisun, President of HD Hyundai.
