SOLiTHOR has made significant progress in developing lithium solid-state batteries for aviation and maritime industries. Their advancements include improved cyclability, energy density, and industrial readiness. Recent testing showed impressive results with 1,000 cycles achieved at high efficiency. Their technology offers lighter, safer, and more powerful batteries, meeting the industry’s demands.
MAN Energy Solutions has successfully completed the retrofit of the main engine of the Very Large Container Vessel ‘Maersk Halifax’ to a dual-fuel MAN B&W ME-LGIM unit. This project, carried out by MAN PrimeServ, marks the first of its kind globally for a VLCV. The vessel was originally powered by an MAN B&W 8G95ME-C9.5.
Normec Verifavia has partnered with Eyesea to support ocean pollution clean-up efforts and develop certification standards. Eyesea’s Founder praised Normec Verifavia’s commitment to sustainability. CEO Nicolas Duchene highlighted the importance of collaboration for environmental change. Together, they aim to drive cleaner oceans and promote responsible practices in the maritime industry.
The Taiwan Coast Guard conducted a daring rescue operation to save the crew of a product tanker, the Liquid Gem, during a severe storm. Despite adverse weather, 14 crew members were rescued, with two pulled from the water. One crew member remains missing. The Coast Guard utilized creative methods to rescue the crew.
ShoreLink has successfully delivered its Shore Power Cable Management System at the Port of La Spezia, enabling cruise vessels to connect to shore power and reduce emissions while docked. The system, following a Factory Acceptance Test, is now in storage at the port and ready for deployment, in partnership with MONT-ELE.
Norwegian shipbuilder Vard recently completed the conversion of the IT Infinity vessel from a Platform Supply Vessel to a specialized Cable Laying Vessel for I.T. International Telecom Marine. The extensive conversion work included adding new accommodations, upgrading electrical systems, and installing modern HVAC systems. The collaboration resulted in a highly capable asset.
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has delayed the approval of the new alliance proposed by Ocean Network Express (ONE), HMM, and Yang Ming. The FMC stated that more time and information are needed to assess the impact on competition. The carriers plan to form the Premier Alliance to replace their current arrangement, The Alliance.
A recent study by UCL and UMAS found that optimizing port arrivals to reduce waiting times could cut voyage emissions by up to 25% for certain vessels. Container ships and dry bulkers could save 10%, gas carriers and oil tankers 16%, and chemical tankers nearly 25%. Addressing port congestion is crucial for emissions reduction efforts.
Wallenius Marine is conducting advanced wind tunnel tests in Gothenburg, Sweden to create the world’s first wind-powered pure car and truck carrier. Experts from RISE KTH and Oceanbird are collaborating on the project, testing the interaction between the vessel’s hull and six high-tech wing sails. This innovative project aims to optimize design for sustainable shipping.
Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, has added the battery-electric hydrofoiling boat VS-9 to its fleet. This nine-meter vessel can reach speeds of 25 knots and has a range of up to 50 nautical miles. Certified by Maritime New Zealand, the VS-9 marks a shift towards sustainable marine transport in the industry.
Efforts to advance ship automation for fully independent operation are progressing, with HD Hyundai achieving a milestone by demonstrating autonomous operation and remote control integration on an 8,000 TEU containership. Certification from both the Korean Registry of Shipping and the Liberia State Flag Bureau marks progress towards commercializing third-stage automation.
Wallenius Marine in Sweden is conducting advanced wind tunnel tests to build the world’s first wind-powered PCTC. The tests in Gothenburg aim to confirm the ship’s design and develop new data simulation models. Collaboration with experts from KTH, RISE SSPA, and Oceanbird is pushing the boundaries of sustainable maritime transportation technology.
The upcoming FuelEU Maritime regulation, effective from January 1, 2025, presents challenges for vessel owners in terms of regulatory understanding and compliance costs. DNV’s white paper suggests strategies to reduce expenses, focusing on well-to-wake emissions calculations and wind-assisted propulsion. Shipowners are advised to prepare early and consider cost-effective compliance options to minimize financial impacts.
The UK government has allocated nearly $1 million in funding to support nine maritime clusters across the country, aiming to boost local economies, connect businesses with the industry, and attract more individuals to the maritime sector. The investment will help secure funding for industries, implement skills training, and revitalize coastal towns and cities.
AET, a leading maritime transportation owner and operator, has teamed up with the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) to boost Singapore’s maritime workforce. A MoU will see AET sponsoring scholarships and internships annually from 2025 to 2027, aiming to groom the next generation of maritime talent. This collaboration underscores AET’s commitment to education and industry development.
