On March 9, 2026, HD Hyundai signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to develop next-generation carbon-free vessels integrated with Small Modular Reactors (SMR).

The ceremony took place at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center (GRC), where both parties committed to designing maritime electric propulsion systems and optimized hull structures to meet global decarbonization standards.

SMR-powered ships are considered a breakthrough in the shipping industry, as they enable zero-emission operations and long-term voyaging without refueling.

Through this collaboration, HD Hyundai aims to establish international standards for nuclear propulsion and secure the technical foundation for future commercialization.

An HD Hyundai official emphasized that the company would leverage its advanced technological expertise to lead the global eco-friendly shipbuilding market and build a sustainable maritime energy ecosystem.

■ Photo Caption: HD Hyundai signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the conceptual design of a nuclear-linked electric propulsion system. (From right: Byeong-hun Kwon, Head of Electrification Center at HD KSOE; Hak-mu Shim, Head of Design Division at HD Hyundai Samho; and Matthew Muller, ABS Regional Vice President of Business Development for North Asia).