According to recent reports, South Korean shipbuilding leader HD Hyundai has clinched a substantial contract valued at 2.13 trillion won (approximately $1.5 billion) to construct eight dual-fuel containerships for the local carrier HMM. This deal marks the most significant order for containerships in nearly two decades, reminiscent of the booming shipbuilding era of 2007.
The agreement was confirmed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, a subsidiary of HD Hyundai, which will oversee the construction of these advanced vessels. Each ship will boast a capacity of 13,400 TEU and dimensions measuring 337 meters in length, 51 meters in width, and standing at 27.9 meters high. Notably, these ships will feature LNG dual-fuel engines and fuel tanks that are about 50% larger than conventional designs to enhance operational efficiency.
In terms of production responsibilities, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is set to build two vessels while its affiliate HD Hyundai Samho will take on the remaining six units. The delivery schedule is planned sequentially through the first half of 2029.
This latest order elevates HD Hyundai’s backlog for containerships to its highest level since the peak shipping volumes recorded during the global economic boom in 2007 when cargo throughput reached an impressive 793,473 TEU. So far this year alone, they have secured orders for a total of 69 containerships amounting to around 720,000 TEU-outpacing all other domestic competitors.
What sets HD Hyundai apart isn’t just their competitive pricing; they also emphasize superior lifecycle economics despite higher upfront costs compared to rivals. Since early this year, their vessels have been equipped with HiNAS Control-a cutting-edge autonomous navigation system developed by Avicus-which has demonstrated capabilities in reducing carbon emissions by up to 15% while simultaneously boosting fuel efficiency by an equal margin based on real-world data.
A representative from HD Hyundai remarked on their commitment: “We are reinforcing our position within the global market through innovative technology and strong customer relationships.” They further expressed determination to lead efforts toward decarbonization within both shipbuilding and maritime transport sectors through eco-friendly technologies focused on high-efficiency ships.
This contract signifies a pivotal moment as industries worldwide grapple with mounting pressures to lower emissions while ensuring operational effectiveness across extended trade routes.
