HD Hyundai has secured a significant shipbuilding contract valued at approximately KRW 2.13 trillion for the construction of eight ultra-large container vessels for HMM, reports Chosun.biz
This marks one of the most substantial orders the company has received in nearly two decades, reflecting a resurgence in demand for energy-efficient container ships.
Next-Generation, Eco-Friendly Vessel Design
The new vessels, each with a capacity of around 13,400 TEU, will be equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of running on both liquefied natural gas and conventional fuel. To support extended voyages and improved fuel efficiency, the ships will feature fuel tanks that are approximately 50 percent larger than earlier models. These enhancements position the fleet to meet stricter emissions requirements and reduce operating costs.
Production will be split between two HD Hyundai shipyards. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will build two of the vessels, while HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries will construct the remaining six. Delivery of the entire fleet is scheduled through the first half of 2029, demonstrating the long-term fleet expansion strategy of HMM.
Technological Competitiveness and Automation
A key highlight of the project is the integration of Hyundai’s advanced HiNAS Control system, which supports autonomous navigation and real-time voyage optimisation. Trial operations of this system have demonstrated benefits such as a 15 percent reduction in carbon emissions and a similar improvement in fuel efficiency. The inclusion of this technology underscores HD Hyundai’s commitment to delivering high-performance, eco-friendly vessels.
This contract adds to an already successful year for the shipbuilder. HD Hyundai has secured orders for 69 container ships amounting to approximately 720,000 TEU, the highest volume since 2007. In total, the company has won 116 vessel orders across multiple categories, valued at roughly USD 16.2 billion.
HD Hyundai emphasized that this order reinforces its role in supporting the maritime sector’s carbon-neutral transition. By focusing on environmentally friendly propulsion systems, efficient ship designs and advanced automation technologies, the company aims to remain at the forefront of sustainable shipbuilding.
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Source: Chosun.Biz
