HD HMD highlighted that there is sufficient space earmarked on the vessel for the installation of an ammonia dual-fuel propulsion system and carbon capture equipment.
The Hyundai Group subsidiary said the design offers “flexibility for integrating future technology solutions” to meet tightening environmental rules, including those set by the International Maritime Organisation and the EU’s FuelEU Maritime regulation.
The dual-fuel vessel design was awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) by the independent organisation after it was presented during Gastech 2025 in Milan, Italy.
The AiP confirms the feasibility of the design and ensures there are no significant technical obstacles hindering its implementation.
“One of the challenges associated with alternative fuels and energy efficiency-enhancing technologies is optimising design for the space required for onboard installation,” explained Vidar Dolonen, DNV’s Regional Manager for Korea and Japan.
“Innovators like HD HMD work on finding ways to optimise their designs to maximise the economic potential of a vessel, while giving owners the flexibility to utilise the latest green solutions.”
Dual-fuel vessels actively run on two fuels, either simultaneously or by switching between them. Developers are increasingly looking to use alternative fuels such as ammonia, green methanol or hydrogen.
For example, Fortescue’s Green Pioneer is powered by a four-stroke engine, two of which can be fuelled by ammonia and diesel. The vessel has been travelling around the globe and arrived in the UK earlier this year.
Alternative fuels ship regs not likely before 2028 ‘at earliest’
New mandatory regulations for using hydrogen and ammonia fuel in ships are unlikely before 2028 at the earliest, according to a white paper by ships classification organisation DNV.
It notes progress has been made with the completion of interim guidelines for hydrogen-fuelled ships planned for 2025, and formal approval and publication next year. But it anticipates another two years before regulations under the IGF Code are approved.
Shipping operators are forcing the pace. While no commercial vessels are operating on ammonia, the first orders for ammonia dual-fuel engines have been signed, with delivery from this year onwards. The Fortescue Green Pioneer completed ammonia fuel trials in May last year.
Ferry operator Torghatten is set to receive two 120m ferries powered by compressed hydrogen in 2025 and liquid hydrogen has been used in the Hydra ferry operated by Norled.
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