(MILAN) ABS granted approval in principle (AIP) for VesselWise, a next-generation autonomous technology for optimizing propulsion to improve fuel efficiency and enhance operational stability. The technology was developed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) and HD Hyundai Marine Solution (HD HMS) for LNG carriers.

The technology was reviewed by ABS for compliance in accordance with the ABS Requirements for Autonomous and Remote-Control Functions, recognizing its semi-autonomous capabilities to integrate and coordinate autonomous functions for propulsion and auxiliary machinery as an autonomous platform.

“In the journey to a fully autonomous vessel, ABS is working with HD Hyundai as they work to autonomize functions onboard vessels step-by-step, starting with navigation systems and moving on to the engine room. This AIP is a significant step toward more autonomous operations, contributing to a safer and more efficient industry,” said Joshua Divin, ABS Senior Vice President, Marine Business Development.

HD Hyundai Group says VesselWise aims to optimize the performance of critical machinery, including air lubrication systems, wind propulsion technology, generator engines and more. By leveraging real-time data from each component, the technology promises to create optimal control scenarios that could maximize fuel efficiency and improve overall operational stability.

Byounghun Kwon, Executive Vice President and Research Director of Digital Research Lab, said: “VesselWise is an innovative control authority management module designed to optimize operations across ALS, WAPS, PTO, and GE systems on LNG carriers. Following this AiP certification, we are preparing for real-ship demonstrations in 2026, marking an important milestone toward autonomous operations. Building on existing smart ship technologies, this advancement enables true self-control without crew intervention, laying the foundation for remote operation in the era of autonomous shipping.”

ABS is the leading provider of technical support for groundbreaking autonomous and remote-controlled technologies for the marine and offshore industries. Learn more here and download a copy of the ABS Requirements for Autonomous and Remote Control Functions here.

Photo Caption: Representatives from ABS and HD Hyundai Group met at Gastech 2025 in Milan, Italy. (L to R) SeMin Kim; ABS Senior Manager, Business Development; Byounghun Kwon, HD KSOE Executive Vice President and Research Director of Digital Research Lab; Joshua Divin; ABS Senior Vice President, Marine Business Development; Sang-Sik Yoon, HD HHI Senior Vice President; and Seong-Heon Cho, HD HMS Executive Vice President.