South Korea has made significant strides in sustainable maritime technology with the introduction of its inaugural hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessel, named Hydro Zenith.
The ship was officially presented on December 18 at VINSSEN’s testing facility located in Yeongam, Jeollanam-do Province. The event saw participation from local government officials, industry stakeholders, and various research organizations.
Measuring 17.4 meters in length and weighing 32 tonnes, Hydro Zenith features a lightweight aluminum hull. It operates using two hydrogen fuel cells rated at 100 kilowatts each and is supported by four lithium-ion battery packs of 92 kWh capacity for hybrid propulsion.
This innovative vessel can reach speeds up to 20 knots (approximately 37 km/h) while maintaining zero emissions and minimal noise levels-an impressive feat for eco-friendly transportation.
The safety of the hydrogen fuel cell system has been validated through pre-certification by KOMSA, ensuring that it meets regulatory standards without requiring special exemptions.
Additionally, Hydro Zenith boasts advanced digital monitoring systems that provide real-time data on performance metrics and energy consumption. This feature enhances maintenance strategies and promotes operational efficiency.
The development of this groundbreaking project was made possible through collaborative funding from VINSSEN alongside support from Jeollanam-do Province and Yeongam County as well as contributions from prominent Korean research institutions.
Furthermore, the vessel has received certification from the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority (KMTSA), confirming its potential as a viable option for green shipping solutions within tourism and leisure industries.
