HD Hyundai Heavy Industry and the Korean Register (KR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop a very large Ethane Carrier (VLEC).

The Memorandum of Understanding was held in Oslo from June 2 to 6, signed at Nor-Shipping 2025 in 2025.

The ethane carrier is intended to transport liquefied ethane at ultra-low temperatures of approximately -100°C.

Due to the nature of their cargo, these vessels have advanced engineering facilities and professional design.

The partnership will enable VLEC development with cargo capacity exceeding 100,000m³.

VLEC will aim to optimize cargo volume while complying with the main specifications of conventional ship designs.

"By developing the next generation of ships that can transport more cargo under the same conditions, we will once again demonstrate HHI's technical leadership in the global ethane transport market," said Ryu Hong-Ryul, CTO and Executive Vice President of Hyundai Heavy Industry.

“Ultimately, we aim to provide a sustainable solution to enhance our customers’ profitability and environmental performance.”

The new VLEC is capable of transporting not only ethane, but also other cargoes such as LPG and propylene.

This versatility is expected to enhance ship owners' "operational flexibility" and "market responsiveness".

Under the terms of the joint project, HD Hyundai Heavy Industry will lead the ship's basic and hull design.

KR will be responsible for reviewing the safety and regulatory compliance of the design in accordance with its latest gas carriers and international standard structural rules to approve in principle.

"This shared effort marks a meaningful starting point for the development of the next generation of ethane carriers. KR remains committed to supporting the industry and driving innovation in future marine technologies," said Lee Hyungchul, South Korea Registrar Chairman and CEO.

In March, the South Korean Register approved the principle certification of offshore decarbonization technology provider Vinssen, which is said to be South Korea's "first" tugboat equipped with hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems.

"HD Modern Heavy Industry, Korea Register, Co-development of VLEC" was originally created and published by GlobalData-owned brand Ship Technology.

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