NO 02.2016
THE HYBRID FUTURE IS SMARTER DRIVEN BY DIGITAL AND GREENER FUELS The biggest change in shipping will be the improvement and spread of connectivity between ship and shore, with vessels
The fleet of the future will be in an ongoing digital ‘conversation’ with its managers.”
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL – Maritime, the classification society
and their sensors and systems transmitting a constant stream of data. The fleet of the future will be in an ongoing digital “conversation” with its managers and perhaps even with a new “traffic control” system that is continually monitoring vessel positions and speeds. Fleet managers will be able to analyze this data, enabling them to advise the captain and crew on navigation, weather patterns, fuel consumption and port arrival. This will help reduce the risks of human error leading to accidents, increase cost efficiency and help improve environmental performance. Data will be widely shared. Ports will use it to help them plan and optimize loading and unloading.
Classification societies will analyze it to check the status of machinery and hull, letting owners and operators know when a survey is required, based on the condition of the systems, thus reducing downtime and unnecessary maintenance. The way that ships are powered will also change. The world’s modern fleet will rely on a broader range of fuels and propulsion solutions. On the long-haul trades, we could see a move toward dual-fuel engines, or pure gas-fueled, with newly developed renewable biofuels as part of the mix. The use of batteries to complement main engines will grow, to smooth power delivery, drive auxiliary systems and maximize energy efficiency. In some sectors, such as ferries and coastal vessels, we could see many more vessels powered completely or largely by electricity. At DNV GL we are excited to be a part of this coming transformation. We will continue to work with stakeholders to realize the potential of our industry.
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Digitalization, climate change and big data are driving innovation and disruption across every single industry, shipping included. Leading marine experts reveal their distinct visions of the ship of the future.