Italy-based classification society RINA has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Hanwha Group and its key affiliates to promote battery-hybrid propulsion systems in shipping, with a focus on the Ro-Ro ferry segment.
The agreement brings together Hanwha Power Systems (now Hanwha Power), Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Engine to accelerate the uptake of low-emission vessel technologies.
The partners aim to support both newbuild and retrofit projects by enabling a shift away from conventional internal combustion propulsion toward advanced battery-hybrid systems. The collaboration combines Hanwha’s capabilities in propulsion, energy storage, and system integration with RINA’s classification and certification expertise.
Under the agreement, Hanwha Power Systems will act as lead integrator, overseeing vessel design and system interface development. It will combine energy storage systems from Hanwha Aerospace with propulsion technologies from Hanwha Engine to deliver hybrid vessel solutions.
Hanwha Aerospace will apply its aerospace-derived energy storage technologies to improve safety and reliability in marine applications, while Hanwha Engine will focus on optimising medium-speed engines to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
RINA will be responsible for verifying regulatory compliance and technical integrity, covering both classification and statutory certification. The company will also provide market insight, particularly within the ferry segment.
Simone Manca, North Asia Marine Vice President at RINA, said: “This agreement reflects the increasing pace of innovation required to meet the maritime sector’s decarbonisation targets. By combining RINA’s expertise in classification and regulatory compliance with Hanwha’s advanced technological capabilities, we are ideally positioned to promote safe, efficient, and scalable hybrid propulsion solutions for the global fleet.”
Kim Hyoung-Seog, Head of the Marine Solutions Business Division at Hanwha Power Systems, added: “This collaboration brings together Hanwha’s core capabilities across energy-equipment, battery systems, and engine integration creating strong technological synergy. Through our partnership with RINA, we will secure reliable technologies and strengthen our presence in the global eco-friendly vessel market.”
