Hyundai Makes Maritime History with Breakerless MVDC Propulsion: A Game-Changer for Clean Energy Shipping

 In a major leap forward for the future of marine propulsion and clean shipping, South Korea’s HD Hyundai has become the first in the world to secure a New Technology Qualification (NTQ) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for its next-generation Breakerless Medium-Voltage Direct Current (MVDC) Power System. This certification not only marks a milestone in marine electrification but also signals a transformative shift in how large vessels will be powered in the future.

The historic recognition was awarded to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI)—the world’s largest shipbuilder—and its affiliate HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE). The breakthrough showcases Hyundai’s growing dominance in advanced maritime technologies, particularly in green propulsion systems that aim to reduce carbon emissions and increase energy efficiency in shipping.

A New Era in Marine Propulsion

This next-gen propulsion system is based on Breakerless-MVDC architecture—an innovation that fundamentally changes how electrical energy is distributed on ships. Unlike traditional alternating current (AC) systems or earlier direct current models, this breakerless MVDC system eliminates the need for circuit breakers and relies instead on a modular, software-driven design. This allows for more precise control, reduced energy loss, and better overall efficiency, especially critical for commercial and naval ships navigating long distances.

According to the developers, the Breakerless-MVDC Power System not only optimizes power distribution but also supports the integration of clean energy sources, making it well-suited for the carbon-neutral ships of the future. The system's modular design also simplifies maintenance and enables faster upgrades, reducing operational downtime and improving lifecycle management.

The Road to Certification

The achievement comes after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2024 between HD Hyundai and ABS, aimed at jointly assessing the technical feasibility of MVDC systems for large-scale maritime use. Over the past year, both entities worked closely to evaluate the technology across various parameters including safety, stability, performance, and regulatory compliance.

The result was a rigorous validation process that led to the issuance of ABS’s prestigious New Technology Qualification, which essentially verifies that the system is both safe and commercially viable. This qualification will now allow HD Hyundai to move from prototyping and testing to full-scale deployment on commercial and military vessels.

Patrick Ryan, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at ABS, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving this milestone:

“We’re excited to deepen our relationship with HD KSOE and HD HHI, jointly exploring forward-thinking solutions that will shape and refine the next generation of vessels.”

Solving Longstanding Industry Challenges

For decades, marine propulsion systems have faced key limitations—chief among them being energy inefficiency, complexity in integration, and difficulty in managing power loads on increasingly electrified ships. The Breakerless-MVDC system addresses these challenges head-on.

One of the key advantages of MVDC over traditional systems is minimized energy loss during power conversion and transmission. In an industry where fuel costs and environmental regulations are tightening simultaneously, even minor improvements in efficiency can translate into significant long-term savings and environmental benefits.

Sanghyun Kim, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE, highlighted the significance of the NTQ certification:

“We aim to lead the commercialization of zero-carbon electric propulsion vessels. This certification is proof of our capability to overcome critical technological hurdles that have long challenged the industry.”

Clean Shipping: The Ultimate Goal

The importance of this breakthrough extends beyond engineering innovation. It fits into the global movement toward decarbonizing the maritime industry, which currently contributes roughly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With international regulations tightening and the IMO (International Maritime Organization) targeting net-zero emissions by 2050, technologies like Hyundai’s breakerless MVDC system will be instrumental in meeting those goals.

This new propulsion architecture allows for seamless integration with alternative energy sources such as battery systems, hydrogen fuel cells, or even onboard renewable energy. It also supports advanced features like unmanned ship navigation systems, offering a blueprint for smart, autonomous, and clean vessels.

ABS’s Patrick Ryan echoed these sentiments:

“Alternative energy options, particularly electrification, are needed to help the shipping industry achieve net zero by 2050.”

From Certification to Commercialization

With the NTQ now secured, HD Hyundai is expected to move swiftly toward integrating this propulsion system into new vessels under construction. The certification applies to both commercial and naval vessels, opening opportunities in cargo shipping, naval defense fleets, and offshore platforms.

Byoung-Hun Kwon, Head of the Electrification Center at HD KSOE, stated:

“Marine MVDC technology is not an option—it’s an essential solution for the electrification and unmanning of large ships and systems.”

This next phase will likely involve partnering with global shipowners, navy authorities, and offshore energy firms to implement the technology at scale. As early adopters begin to commission ships powered by the Breakerless-MVDC system, HD Hyundai could quickly become the industry standard for advanced marine propulsion.

Global Implications

Hyundai’s achievement is not just a national milestone for South Korea—it sends a global message. In an age where environmental sustainability is no longer optional, innovations that combine engineering excellence with environmental responsibility are becoming the cornerstone of industrial progress.

By being the first to receive the NTQ for a breakerless MVDC system, HD Hyundai has established itself as a trailblazer in marine electrification. The certification also positions ABS as a forward-looking regulatory body ready to embrace and promote cutting-edge technologies for a greener future.

As more governments and corporations look to invest in eco-friendly marine transport, Hyundai’s success may well become a case study in how proactive innovation, public-private partnerships, and global collaboration can reshape entire industries.

Final Thoughts

The NTQ certification of Hyundai’s Breakerless-MVDC Power System is more than a technological feat—it’s a vision for the future of shipping. One where vessels are smarter, cleaner, and more efficient. One where traditional constraints no longer hold back innovation. And one where global industry leaders work hand-in-hand to usher in a new era of sustainable maritime operations.

As HD Hyundai sets sail toward full commercialization, the world watches closely. Not just for what this technology means for today’s ships—but for what it promises for the fleets of tomorrow.

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