HMM’s smart, LNG-ready 16,000 TEU newbuilds set to enter into service

South Korea’s national flagship carrier HMM expects the first of eight 16,000 TEU-class newbuilding containerships to enter into service in March.

The series was ordered back in 2018 from compatriot Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).

An HMM spokesperson confirmed to Offshore Energy – Green Marine that all eight ships are designed as LNG-ready types.

“Our 16,000 TEU vessels are equipped with an open-loop scrubber system embedded with hybrid-ready technology,” the spokesperson said.

“Additionally, selective catalytic reduction technology will reduce nitrogen oxides by 80% or more compared to the industry average.”

HMM said that the ships have an improved energy efficiency enabling them to cut their carbon footprints by up to 52% percent when compared to their predecessors.

One of the most notable technologies on board the ships is the Alternative Marine Power (AMP) equipment, enabling the containerships to use on-shore electric power at main ports and generate their own electric power while at berth.

They will also feature ballast water treatment systems and an underwater robot for hull cleaning.

The boxships have been assigned with the smart ship notation as they integrate a number of next-generation technologies.

They are connected with the HMM’s Fleet Control Center in Busan to effectively monitor and manage their status.

The Fleet Control Centre provides an integrated platform for vessel-to-shore data and increased connectivity. It monitors vessel performance, location, fuel consumption, weather and cargo information in real-time.

It also offers an option of a remote control system for a wide range of vessel operations such as inspection and repair works on the machinery on ships.

The company expects to take delivery of all eight newbuilds in the first half of the year.

“The acquisition is expected to enable HMM to form an enhanced cost structure with lower fixed costs and secure greater operational efficiency,” HMM said announcing its results for 2020.

The shipping company reported an operating profit of $831.1 million in 2020, against a loss of $254 million in 2019. The result recorded in 2020 represents HMM’s highest ever operating profit.

The eight new vessels will be deployed on the Asia – North European route from the second quarter of 2021.

Their respective names will be: HMM Nuri, HMM Gaon, HMM Garam, HMM Mir, HMM Hanbada, HMM Raon, HMM Daon, and HMM Hanul.

The newbuilds are part of of the company’s major fleet overhaul which included an order for 20 containerships. The remaining twelve 24,000 TEU ships have already been delivered to the company, and have all been fully filled on their first voyages.

The Seoul-based shipping company operates a global fleet of over 100 vessels.