Hyundai Heavy to build 5 LNG-fuelled vessels for Taiwan’s Yang Ming

Taiwan’s Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. and Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. have signed a shipbuilding contract for the construction of five 15,500 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels, the Taiwanese company said on May 31.

The vessels are expected to be delivered in 2026, as part of Yang Ming's mid-long-term fleet plan. The contract reflects Yang Ming's commitment to building a green and energy-saving fleet in line with the maritime net zero carbon emission target by 2050, the company said.

In addition to retrofitting existing vessels for energy efficiency, Yang Ming has established a dedicated desk to monitor energy efficiency and the development of future marine fuels. The new container vessels, to be constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries, will be equipped with high-pressure LNG dual fuel main engines and ballast water treatment systems to comply with the latest environmental regulations.

They will also feature advanced integrated systems for navigational information and operation monitoring, as well as a broadband maritime satellite system. These technologies will enable the collection of navigational big data and enhance vessel safety.

Currently, Yang Ming operates a fleet of 94 vessels with a total capacity of around 715,000 TEU. The addition of the five 15,500 TEU LNG dual fuel container vessels will optimise Yang Ming's fleet, reduce operating costs, and contribute to carbon emission reduction, the company said.