EPS, Avikus ink pact to deploy AI navigation on two vessels

Home Green Marine EPS and Avikus have signed an agreement to implement AI navigation on two ships. Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) from Singapore has tasked Avikus, a South Korean autonomous navigation systems company under HD Hyundai, to provide their AI-powered autonomous navigation solution for two EPS vessels. The deal includes installing Avikus’ HiNAS Control, the HiNAS Cloud system, an onshore fleet monitoring analytics platform, and HiNAS SVM, a digital tool offering a 360° top view and distance guides for safer berthing and unberthing. These systems will be installed on a bulk carrier and a Suezmax tanker. EPS representatives have mentioned that the project will also include full installation and a crew training program for onboard and continuous online education. This collaboration is said to be Avikus’ first commercial retrofit contract outside South Korea and is expected to assist EPS in achieving its environmental targets.

Avikus CEO Dohyeong Lim shared his thoughts on the agreement, emphasizing the efficacy of their autonomous technology in delivering fuel savings and enhancing safety. With the maritime industry facing increasing regulatory demands and changing stakeholder expectations, there is a growing adoption of autonomous technologies for a safer and more sustainable maritime future. Avikus has equipped over 350 vessels with AI-enabled systems, including both new vessels and retrofits, with upcoming projects in the pipeline. In a recent deal in December 2024, Avikus signed a contract with H-Line Shipping in South Korea to provide its HiNas solution for a minimum of five ships, with the potential to expand to 30 vessels.

In September of the previous year, HD Hyundai’s subsidiary collaborated with Norway’s DNV classification society to work on developing the “world’s first” approval of autonomous ship solutions.