HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, the shipbuilding unit under HD Hyundai, announced Monday that it is set to construct two of the world’s first ammonia-powered medium-sized vessels, with targeted delivery by 2026.

The company said it has decided to adopt a dual-fuel engine using both ammonia and liquefied petroleum gas for two ship orders made by Belgian shipping firm Exmas in March.

The ships, slated for construction at the Hyundai Mipo Shipyard in Ulsan, measure 45,000 cubic meters, classifying them as "medium-sized vessels" by industry standards. They will have the capability to run on ammonia and transport both ammonia and LPG.

These vessels are designed to meet environmental standards, aligning with the International Maritime Organization's carbon reduction objectives for 2030 and 2050.

Ammonia, as a fuel, offers environmental benefits. It's a carbon-neutral substance that emits no carbon dioxide when combusted. Its transport and storage advantages make it an attractive sustainable fuel alternative.

In 2020, HD Korea Shipbuilding received certification for ammonia dual-fuel engines from Britain's Lloyd's Register. The following year, the company pioneered the development of the world’s first ammonia fuel supply system.

The company has explored alternative fuels beyond ammonia. In August 2021, the firm secured an order for the world's first methanol-powered megasized container vessel. And in July this year, they launched the initial methanol-powered container ship from the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard.

• ·HiteJinro soju seeks bigger footing in UK
• ·Japan thanks S. Korea for Israel rescue effort
• ·Try on traditional Korean costume during Hanbok Culture Week
• ·Choo calls for end to protectionism, supply chain recovery during G20 meeting
• ·Korean Air orders 20 Airbus A321neo aircraft
• ·Doosan Robotics to supply chicken
• ·Seoul to implement alert system to manage overcrowded areas
• ·Seoul defense exhibition aims to boost arms exports
• ·LS Materials to tap deeper into EV, green energy markets
• ·S. Korea, UAE strike bilateral free trade agreement
• ·SK Ecoplant recycles over 6,000 tons of batteries
• ·HMM sale to face hurdles amid slowdown in shipping industry
• ·Yoon orders increased defense of public digital infrastructure
• ·New book sheds light on ongoing debate and legacy of comfort women issues
• ·HD Korea Shipbuilding to build world's first ammonia
• ·Korea extends fuel tax cut scheme until year's end