ABS Approves South Korean 16,000 TEU Electric-Powered Boxship Design
ABS Greenlights Groundbreaking Electric Boxship Design
ABS has officially approved a pioneering concept for a 16,000 TEU electric-powered container ship, developed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. This significant milestone was announced during the Gastech 2025 event in Milan, where ABS confirmed the approval followed a thorough evaluation of the ship’s power system, including generation, conversion, and propulsion motors. The project is set to enter its next phase in 2026, aiming to enhance energy storage solutions and propulsion efficiency for long-haul maritime trade.
Advancing Electric Propulsion Technology
The approval in principle (AiP) for the electric-powered boxship marks a crucial step in the maritime industry’s transition towards sustainable shipping solutions. While electric ferries and smaller coastal vessels have demonstrated the viability of electric propulsion, the development of a container ship of this magnitude represents an unprecedented challenge. HD Hyundai’s initiative aims to leverage advancements in energy storage and propulsion technology to make full-electric power feasible for larger vessels operating on extended routes.
In the coming years, HD Hyundai plans to focus on developing large-scale energy storage systems that can support the operational demands of a 16,000 TEU container ship. This includes enhancing the efficiency of propulsion systems to ensure that electric power can sustain long-distance voyages. The successful implementation of this technology could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of maritime shipping, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The approval from ABS not only underscores the potential of electric propulsion in the shipping industry but also highlights the growing interest in innovative solutions to meet environmental regulations. As the industry moves forward, the collaboration between shipbuilders and classification societies will be vital in navigating the complexities of integrating electric systems into large vessels.
