Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announced that the naming and launching ceremony, which took place on September 13th for Japan’s first hybrid passenger ship, which utilizes hydrogen and biodiesel fuels.
According to MOL, the vessel was was named Hanaria. The ship’s name, Hanaria, reflects the companies’ hope that the vessel will function as a next-generation fuel passenger ship with the elegance of a magnificent song.
MOL claimed in a statement that the ship will reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 53%-100% compared to conventional fossil fuels vessels, by introducing a system that would be the first case in Japan, that allows the selection of any of operating modes: hydrogen fuel cells, lithium-ion batteries, and biodiesel fuel.
It was ordered by MOL Group company MOTENA-Sea and is under construction at the Hongawara Ship Yard. The ship is scheduled to be delivered in March 2024 and will start servicing in Fukuoka Prefecture in April 2024.
MOL remains committed to reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. To remind, MOL and Shell Marine Products Singapore recently agreed to develop alternate maritime solutions and control carbon emissions well. Meanwhile, MOL also joined Washington Maritime Blue (WMB) to promote sustainability in shipping.
