- Collaboration on advanced navigation and decarbonisation retrofit solutions, with joint research on Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) systems.
- Expansion of Maersk’s integrated logistics services to HD Hyundai’s affiliated companies.
- HD Hyundai’s commitment to technological advancements is aimed at building a sustainable maritime logistics network.
On Tuesday, 6th May 2025, HD Hyundai and A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking the beginning of a collaboration focused on decarbonisation solutions for vessels. This partnership also involves HD Hyundai expanding the use of Maersk’s integrated logistics services across its various affiliates.
MOU Signing Ceremony at HD Hyundai’s Global R&D Center
The signing ceremony took place at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center (GRC) in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, and was attended by prominent figures, including HD Hyundai Executive Vice Chairman Chung Kisun and Maersk Chairman Robert Maersk Uggla, along with other officials.
Continued Partnership in Decarbonisation and Methanol-Powered Ships
Since 2021, HD Hyundai has been fulfilling orders for 19 methanol-powered container ships from Maersk. Last year, they successfully delivered the world’s first methanol-powered ultra-large container ship. This milestone further solidifies the ongoing collaboration between the two companies in the field of decarbonisation within shipbuilding and the shipping industry.
Energy-Efficient Vessel Operations and Optimised Navigation Systems Trial
The initial phase of the collaboration involves a six-month trial focused on applying Avikus’ HiNAS, an advanced navigation solution designed for energy-efficient vessel operations. Additionally, HD Hyundai Marine Solution’s OCEANWISE route optimisation will be tested on a Maersk container vessel built and delivered by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. The goal of this trial is to validate the fuel-saving and greenhouse gas emission-reduction impacts of optimised navigation systems. The companies also plan to explore ship retrofitting solutions for decarbonisation, such as optimising engine efficiency, increasing cargo capacity, and retrofitting dual-fuel propulsion systems. Furthermore, joint research on the feasibility of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system will be pursued.
Strengthening Global Supply Chain with Integrated Logistics
As part of the agreement, HD Hyundai will strengthen its global supply chain by leveraging Maersk’s integrated logistics services. This will involve expanding ocean freight volumes supported by Maersk’s East-West network and utilizing Maersk’s airfreight and land transportation capabilities, as well as warehousing infrastructure. The initial focus will be on providing tailored logistics solutions for HD Hyundai’s affiliates, including HD Hyundai XiteSolution and HD Hyundai Marine Solution. The partnership is expected to enhance the stability and agility of the company’s global supply chain, with further expansion planned for other affiliates.
Technological Advancements for a Sustainable Maritime Logistics Network
Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai, expressed, “Our collaboration with Maersk will serve as a leading example of innovation in the global logistics market by combining decarbonisation shipping technologies with integrated logistics networks. We will rapidly advance the world’s best shipbuilding technologies to build a sustainable maritime logistics network that ensures safety, low emissions, and optimal efficiency.”
Robert Maersk Uggla, Chairman of A.P. Moller – Maersk, added, “Our partnership with HD Hyundai has been built over decades, founded on mutual trust and respect. This Memorandum of Understanding marks an important milestone, reinforcing the strong relationship we have developed and paving the way for even greater collaboration in the future.”
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Source: Maersk
