The collaboration aims to accelerate the transition to low-emission vessels by leveraging innovative technologies

RINA, a global ship classification, inspection, certification, and consulting engineering group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hanwha Group and its affiliates, Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Aerospace, and  Hanwha Engine. The aim is to promote the adoption of advanced battery hybrid propulsion systems in the maritime sector, particularly in the Ro-Ro ferry segment.

Accelerate the transition to low-emission vessels 

This collaboration will accelerate the transition to low-emission vessels by leveraging innovative technologies to enable the shift from traditional internal combustion propulsion systems to advanced hybrid battery solutions for new builds and existing vessels through retrofitting. The partners intend to deliver a comprehensive solution by combining the hardware expertise of the three Hanwha companies with RINA’s certification know-how.

Adoption of next-generation propulsion solutions

The combination of Hanwha's cutting-edge proficiency in propulsion, energy storage, and systems integration with RINA's in-depth understanding of regulations and certification is set to drive the advancement and adoption of next-generation propulsion solutions.

Hanwha Power Systems will act as the project’s lead integrator

Hanwha Power Systems will act as the project’s lead integrator, overseeing the design of the entire ship and the development of the system interface. The company will deliver an advanced battery-hybrid propulsion vessel by combining Hanwha Aerospace’s marine Energy Storage System with Hanwha Engine’s propulsion -engine technologies, utilising its own engineering capabilities.

Hanwha Aerospace will enhance the vessel's safety

Hanwha Aerospace will enhance the vessel's safety and reliability by applying its aerospace energy technologies to the marine ESS solutions. Meanwhile, Hanwha Engine will utilise its expertise in medium-speed engines to optimise the propulsion system, maximising fuel efficiency and minimising carbon emissions.

Related: RINA to classify 24-meter wind-powered reefer cargo vessel

RINA: the project's regulatory compliance

RINA will play a key role in verifying and certifying the project's regulatory compliance and technical soundness for classification and statutory certification purposes. Additionally, RINA will support Hanwha in analysing market trends within the ferry sector, drawing on its extensive experience in this specific segment

Meet the maritime sector’s decarbonisation targets

Simone Manca, North Asia Marine Vice President at RINA, commented, “This agreement reflects the increasing pace of innovation required to meet the maritime sector’s decarbonisation targets. By combining RINA’s expertise in classification and regulatory compliance with Hanwha’s advanced technological capabilities, we are ideally positioned to promote safe, efficient, and scalable hybrid propulsion solutions for the global fleet.”

Creating strong technological synergy.

Kim Hyoung-Seog, Head of the Marine Solutions Business Division at Hanwha Power Systems, stated, “This collaboration brings together Hanwha’s core capabilities across energy ‑equipment, battery systems, and engine integration, creating strong technological synergy. Through our partnership with RINA, we will secure reliable technologies and strengthen our presence in the global eco‑friendly vessel market.”

About: Hanwha Group

Hanwha Group is a major South Korean chaebol large family-controlled business conglomerate) founded in 1952, currently ranking as the seventh-largest business enterprise in South Korea. Headquartered in Seoul, it has grown from its origins in explosives and chemicals into a global leader in aerospace, defense, energy, finance, and retail

#Hanwha Group #Kim Hyoung-Seog #Hanwha Aerospace #RINA #Hanwha Aerospace #Simone Manca #vessel market # global fleet #Ro-Ro ferry #decarbonisation # battery-hybrid propulsion