Autonomous Navigation Technology to be Installed on 30 Ocean-Going Ships

Korea’s H-Line and Avikus, HD Hyundai’s Autonomous Navigation Technology division, have made a significant advancement in autonomous shipping by signing an order for the installation of autonomous technology on ocean-going ships. This marks a commercial milestone in the industry, with H-Line aiming to improve vessel safety, reduce crew workload, and comply with environmental regulations by implementing autonomous navigation solutions. The initial contract involves installing systems on five ships, with plans to expand to as many as 30 ships in the future.

H-Line, previously known as Korea Bulk Shipping, has rapidly grown since its inception a decade ago and currently operates a fleet of bulk carriers, LNG vessels, and PCTC vehicle carriers. The HiNAS Control system from Avikus, an AI-based autonomous navigation system, integrates information from various navigation equipment and sensors to guide vessels along optimal routes and speeds. This technology is a step towards fully automating navigation, with vessels being able to plot and implement routes using AI and onboard sensors.

Avikus recently conducted a successful 5,800-mile trial voyage using the HiNAS control system, demonstrating fuel savings of up to 15 percent. The company was the first in the industry to commercialize an autonomous navigation solution corresponding to Level 2 of the IMO’s autonomous ship regulations. In addition to supplying the solution, H-Line and Avikus plan to deepen their collaboration by providing technical support and data analysis to enhance system performance. The industry is continuing to develop regulations for autonomous shipping, with short-sea and coastal shipping expected to be early adopters of this technology.

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