HD Hyundai Develops Korea's First High-Pressure Drive for Electric Propulsion Vessels

Securing Independent Technology in Just Four Years Since Development Began

On June 13, HD Hyundai announced that it has succeeded in developing the nation's first high-pressure propulsion drive product with a modular structure (MMC).

The MMC-structured high-pressure propulsion drive is a next-generation technology optimized for large-capacity and high-voltage power systems. It is a core component that determines the maneuverability, power quality, and survivability of electric propulsion vessels. Due to its high technological complexity, only a few companies in Europe and the United States have succeeded in commercializing it so far.

HD Hyundai recently developed a 'High-Pressure Propulsion Drive' product and held a technology demonstration. Photo by HD Hyundai

HD Hyundai, in collaboration with research teams from Seoul National University and Kyungpook National University, began independent technology development in 2022 and completed product development in December of last year. According to the company, this land-based demonstration officially verified the product's performance and stability.

Electric propulsion vessels are considered the core of future naval power because they generate less noise and offer superior maneuverability compared to conventional diesel engine systems. The propulsion drive developed by HD Hyundai is notable for reducing both system size and weight by more than 20%.

Based on this achievement, HD Hyundai plans to enhance the competitiveness of electrification technology across the shipbuilding industry. Kim Sungjoon, CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, stated, "This product is a symbol of HD Hyundai's technological prowess in vessel electrification," adding, "We will accelerate commercialization and lead the global market expansion of K-defense maritime technology with domestically developed technology."

HD Hyundai is currently conducting additional research in partnership with the Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute, the Korea Research Institute of Ship and Ocean Engineering, and the Korean Register, aiming for commercialization by 2027.