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HD Hyundai and H-Line Shipping to Co-Develop AI-Powered Autonomous and Eco-Friendly Ship Technology

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – July 30, 2025 
 
  • The goal of the AI solution is to reduce fuel consumption, improve operational efficiency, and enhance safety 
  • Aims to minimize vessel operating costs throughout its lifecycle and proactively respond to strengthening global environmental regulations 
  • "This marks the starting point for AI-based digital innovation... We will set the standard for next-generation eco-friendly ships."

HD Hyundai announced today that it will jointly develop 'AI-based autonomous and eco-friendly ship technology' in collaboration with a leading domestic shipping company.

HD Hyundai signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the 'Joint Development of AI-Based Autonomous and Eco-Friendly Ship Technology' with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), HD Hyundai Marine Solution, Avikus, and H-Line Shipping at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center in Pangyo.

The ceremony was attended by key executives, including Kwang-Pil, Chang (CTO, HD KSOE), Ho-Dong Seo (COO, H-Line Shipping), Bongjun Choi (SVP, HD Hyundai Marine Solution), and Dohyeong Lim (CEO, Avikus).

This agreement was driven by the rapid expansion and application of AI technology across all areas of ship operations—including autonomous navigation, engine automation, optimal route planning, and cargo transport efficiency—to maximize the operational performance of individual ships and entire fleets.

Under the agreement, HD Hyundai and H-Line Shipping will co-develop an AI solution designed to minimize fuel consumption, maximize operational efficiency, and increase vessel safety.

HD Hyundai will oversee the integration and application of the technology. The project involves combining Avikus's autonomous navigation solution 'HiNAS' and HD Hyundai Marine Solution's optimal routing solution 'OceanWise' with HD KSOE's AI-based cargo management system 'AI-CHS'. H-Line Shipping will provide an LNG carrier for the technology's sea trials and verification.

Through this collaboration, HD Hyundai and H-Line Shipping aim to proactively develop and secure a first-mover advantage in the market with an AI-based solution that minimizes costs across the entire ship lifecycle—from design and construction to operation and maintenance—while pre-emptively responding to the strengthening environmental regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

"Technology that transports cargo via the most optimal routes using AI is a critical factor determining a shipping company's competitiveness," said Ho-Dong Seo, COO of H-Line Shipping. "We expect this collaboration further to enhance the efficiency and safety of our fleet operations."

Kwang-Pil Chang, CTO of HD KSOE, stated, "This partnership is the starting point for AI-based digital innovation that transcends the boundaries between shipbuilding and shipping. It will serve as an important milestone in setting the standard for the eco-friendly ships of the future."

 

 
About Avikus Avikus, a subsidiary of HD Hyundai, is a pioneering company in autonomous maritime technology. Through its cutting-edge solutions for large commercial vessels, HiNAS (Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System), and for leisure boats, NEUBOAT, Avikus is enhancing maritime safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The company is at the forefront of the global autonomous shipping revolution, developing solutions that span the entire marine industry.
 
About H-Line Shipping H-Line Shipping is a specialized carrier that has established a business portfolio focused on long-term contracts with premier domestic and international clients, including KEPCO, POSCO, and Vale. By providing safe and reliable maritime transport services for essential resources like iron ore, coal, and LNG, the company plays a vital role in national economic stability. H-Line Shipping is committed to leading the industry with a competitive and eco-friendly fleet.