HD Hyundai is partnering with AI and robotics start-ups to develop a humanoid robot for complex welding tasks, aiming to transform smart shipyards. The initiative emphasizes improved human-machine collaboration to enhance productivity and safety. Prototypes are expected by 2026, with field testing and commercialization planned for 2027.
South Korea’s HD Hyundai is actively exploring opportunities in India for a shipyard location or partnership, in line with India’s goal to become a world-class shipbuilder. The South Korean shipbuilder is touring India’s facilities and engaging with domestic shipbuilders for potential partnerships.
Korea’s H-Line and Avikus have made a significant leap in autonomous shipping technology by signing an order to install autonomous systems on ocean-going ships. This milestone aims to enhance vessel safety, reduce crew workload, and meet environmental regulations. The partnership plans to equip up to 30 ships with this cutting-edge technology in the future.
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.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is leading a demonstration of autonomous operations on a large containership as part of a government-sponsored program. Equipped with specially designed systems, the vessel is showcasing autonomous collision avoidance and remote control capabilities. The initiative aims to advance technology development and establish international standards for autonomous shipping.
Hyundai Heavy Industries has achieved a major breakthrough in developing ammonia-fueled engines with a unique high-pressure injection method. The engine has passed model testing and is ready for commercialization, featuring a high-pressure direct injection method. This advancement aligns with the industry’s shift towards eco-friendly fuels, with other companies also making strides in ammonia technology.
South Korea has achieved a major milestone in autonomous shipping with the successful installation and testing of the first containership with an integrated automation system. The vessel, POS Singapore, built as part of a government program, is now heading to Shanghai for a year of validation testing.
Hyundai’s HD Hyundai is making significant investments in hydrogen fuel cells to strengthen its position in the shipping industry. By establishing a new division, HD Hydrogen, and acquiring a majority stake in a Finnish company, the company aims to tap into the growing market for hydrogen fuel cells and electrolysis technologies. Initial focus will be on stationary power generation, followed by applications in the marine fuel cell market.
South Korean shipbuilding group HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering has secured a significant $27 billion order for new containerships, believed to be from CMA CGM. The 12 vessels, with a capacity of 15,500 TEU, will be constructed at HD Hyundai Shipyard and HD Hyundai Samho. This order reflects a strong demand for high-cost vessels and positions HD Hyundai as a key player in the industry.
South Korea launched a new containership for Level 3 autonomous shipping, aiming to lead in the development of autonomous vessels. The vessel, named Pos Singapore, is 564 feet long with a capacity of 1,800 TEU. The government has invested over $120 million in research and development for this technology, with plans for international demonstrations later this year.
Work was suspended at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard after a fatal accident killed one person and left another seriously injured. The accident occurred during a lift and repositioning of a 9,000-ton block for an offshore crude oil production platform. South Korean officials imposed a stop work order and launched an investigation.
The market for very large ammonia carriers (VLAC) is rapidly growing, with South Korea’s major shipbuilders taking the lead. Analysts project rapid growth as ammonia power technologies become commercially available, with ammonia anticipated to become a leading alternative fuel. Shipowners are preparing for the market by ordering large vessels, with South Korean shipbuilders leading the way.
