Seoul, South Korea | January 16, 2016 – In a move that signals the “mainstreaming” of AI-driven shipping, Avikus, the autonomous navigation subsidiary of HD Hyundai, has signed a landmark agreement with South Korean carrier HMM. The deal will see Avikus’s “Level 2” autonomous solution, HiNAS Control, integrated into 40 HMM vessels, marking the largest single supply contract for autonomous navigation in maritime history.
With this contract, Avikus becomes the first provider to surpass 100 cumulative units supplied to the large-scale commercial sector. The agreement also includes a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Avikus, HMM, and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) to accelerate the commercialization of AI-based maritime standards.
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Beyond Decision Support: The “Level 2” Leap
Unlike Level 1 systems, which only offer “recognition and judgment” (alerting the crew to hazards), HiNAS Control is a Level 2 system capable of active vessel control. By integrating AI with real-time sensor fusion and deep learning, the system autonomously performs:
- Optimal Route Setting: Adjusting tracks in real-time based on weather and sea conditions.
- Collision Avoidance: Automatically executing steering commands to maintain safe distances from other vessels or hazards.
- Fuel Optimization: Maintaining steady speeds to maximize energy efficiency, a critical metric for HMM’s decarbonization goals.
Strategic Impact: Data-Driven Competitiveness
The partnership creates a “virtuous cycle” for AI development. Under the new MOU, HMM will deploy the technology across its diversified fleet, providing Avikus with massive volumes of real-world voyage data. HD KSOE will act as the technical backbone, ensuring seamless system integration across both newbuilds and retrofits.
“The core of this collaboration is to enhance the effectiveness of autonomous technology through real-world data,” said Won-hyuk Choi, CEO of HMM. “We expect to build a sustainable operation system by improving efficiency and safety while reducing the workload of our seafarers.”
A Turning Point for the Global Fleet
For the bunkering and maritime industry, this 40-vessel rollout proves that autonomous navigation is no longer a “pilot phase” curiosity. By standardizing AI control, HMM aims to mitigate the global shortage of seafarers while simultaneously hitting its ESG targets through reduced fuel consumption.
“This landmark contract with HMM marks a definitive shift as autonomous navigation moves from technical validation into the era of large-scale commercialization,” stated Jay H. Kang, CEO of Avikus. “We are delivering a proven commercial standard that enhances the economic and operational competitiveness of the global fleet.”
About HMM
HMM (Hyundai Merchant Marine), is South Korea’s national flagship carrier and currently ranks as the 8th largest container shipping line in the world. Operating a fleet that includes some of the world’s largest “mega-ships,” HMM is a leader in the industry’s ESG transition. The company is heavily invested in a “sustainable fleet management” vision, integrating LNG dual-fuel engines, methanol-powered vessels, and AI-driven digital innovations to secure a carbon-neutral future.
About Avikus
Avikus is the specialized autonomous navigation arm of HD Hyundai (formerly Hyundai Heavy Industries Group). Founded in 2021, the company successfully conducted the world’s first transoceanic voyage of a large merchant ship (Prism Courage) using autonomous technology. Avikus aims to redefine maritime safety and efficiency for both the commercial shipping and leisure boating markets through its HiNAS and NeuBoat product lines.
Source: HD Hyundai’s Avikus