Hitachi Europe Ltd., a subsidiary of the Tokyo-based technology company Hitachi, has partnered with Swedish Stena Line, one of the largest shipping companies in Europe, to implement artificial intelligence technology on ships to reduce fuel consumption costs, in a bid to boost the company’s efforts to minimise environmental impact.
The partnership will see a team of Hitachi experts review the existing digital architecture, in close collaboration with Stena Line, and advise the ferry company as it aims to become the world’s leading cognitive shipping company by 2021. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies, Hitachi will be able to identify the key factors causing high fuel consumption and, critically, advise how to make operations more efficient.
Over the last months, Stena Line has shown an increased interest in reducing emissions from its operations through integration of new technologies. Its annual report for 2017 revealed a 15% decrease in sulphur emissions, while its sustainability strategy is based on the UN sustainable development goals which have four main focus areas: Clean Energy, Responsible Consumption, Life below Water, and Health & Wellbeing.
Hicham Abdessamad, Chief Executive Officer, Hitachi Global Digital Holdings Corporation, Corporate Officer of Hitachi, Ltd said:
Digitalisation plays a key role in helping industries such as shipping optimise their operations for both financial performance and environmental impact. We are engaged with Stena Line on a number of strategic co-creation initiatives and we see this as an important next step in providing digital expertise to help them achieve positive business and societal outcomes.
Rune Kleiberg, Head of digital strategy, Stena Line said:
With a structured approach and by taking continuous initiatives, the aim is for Stena Line to become a leader in sustainable shipping. We are pleased to have Hitachi on board to help us in our cognitive journey to improve fleet operation across ship and shore, providing new capabilities for safer and more sustainable ferry journeys, as well as helping improve operational efficiencies and overall vessel performance.