Sustainable Ship Design

The maritime industry faces increasing pressure to accelerate the adoption of hybrid, electric, and alternative‑fuel propulsion systems while simultaneously improving vessel efficiency, reducing emissions, and ensuring long‑term flexibility. Yet the engineering processes behind these systems remain time‑consuming, highly customised, and heavily dependent on scarce specialist expertise. This mismatch delays progress at a time when operators and shipyards must adapt faster than ever.

To meet this challenge, we present a new approach developed in close collaboration with Corvia, a maritime technology brand rooted in more than a century of electrical engineering expertise through Eekels Technology. Corvia’s philosophy is built on modularity-first design, standardisation, and configure‑to‑order delivery. Our flagship Modular Propulsion Platform (MPP) embodies this vision: a compact, DC‑based, future‑ready architecture capable of integrating batteries, fuel cells, solar, and other emerging zero‑emission energy sources.

Building on the principles behind Corvia’s flagship Modular Propulsion Platform (MPP) , Corvia introduce a new standardized design methodology supported by a digital configurator. This tool enables shipyards and system integrators to quickly create validated system designs, complete with dimensions, weight, interface layouts, and connection detail, within minutes rather than weeks. It leverages proven building blocks pre‑approved for class compliance and cybersecure operation, ensuring consistency and eliminating many of the traditional error sources.

HYUNDAI GLOVIS introduces a 10,800 CEU ultra-large Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), the world’s largest of its kind, establishing a scalable approach to sustainable maritime logistics through scale-driven decarbonization. As the first vessel in a 20-vessel series, it represents a major step toward a more efficient and low-carbon fleet.

The vessel’s ultra-large design significantly increases cargo capacity, reducing voyage frequency and enabling up to 40–50% lower CO₂ emissions per CEU-mile under optimized conditions. LNG dual-fuel propulsion supports emission reduction, while ammonia- and methanol-ready design ensures future regulatory adaptability.

Operational efficiency is enhanced through five liftable decks for flexible cargo loading, a 4,600 m³ LNG tank enabling long-haul operations of up to 16,000 nautical miles, and a shaft generator that reduces auxiliary engine use. Energy-saving devices, including a twisted rudder, propeller cap, and pre-swirl ducts, further improve efficiency. An Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) system enables zero-emission operations at berth.

The vessel is also equipped with an AI-based navigation support system, Hi-NAS, enabling real-time route optimization and contributing to approximately 3–5% fuel savings per voyage.

Standardized design across 20 vessels enables economies of scale and broader industry adoption, delivering a practical and commercially viable model aligned with global decarbonization goals.

The GADUS 5800 is a 5,800 dwt diesel-electric dry cargo vessel developed by Royal T Shipyards, designed to improve efficiency and reduce emissions in short sea shipping.

The vessel combines diesel-electric propulsion with an electric self-discharging system, allowing cargo operations without reliance on shore-based equipment. This increases operational flexibility while reducing emissions during port stays. A smart power management system optimises energy use under varying conditions, contributing to lower fuel consumption and more efficient operations.

The design is supported by a hydrodynamically optimised hull and prepared for future technologies such as wind-assisted propulsion, batteries and alternative fuels. The result is a practical, future-ready vessel that meets current environmental standards while remaining adaptable to evolving regulations.

At Royal T Shipyards, we build on proven experience with a clear focus on the future. As a family-owned Dutch shipyard with over 100 years of heritage, we combine craftsmanship with modern engineering. Our ships are designed and built by people who understand both the technical and operational realities of shipping.

The GADUS 5800 reflects this approach: a reliable, efficient and scalable solution that contributes to more sustainable maritime transport.

Windcoop is the world’s first cooperative wind-powered container feeder, designed to decarbonize maritime transport through energy efficiency by design.

Currently under construction, the 220 TEU vessel will operate between Marseille and Madagascar, combining three large rigid wing sails with an optimized hull to significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

Unlike conventional approaches relying on alternative fuels, Windcoop reduces emissions at the source by lowering energy demand. This enables expected CO₂ reductions of up to 60% compared to conventional feeder vessels, with immediate and measurable impact.

Beyond its technical innovation, Windcoop introduces a cooperative model involving cargo owners directly in the project, aligning environmental and economic interests across the value chain.

Designed for real-world operations, the vessel will provide a reliable liner service compatible with standard port infrastructure and container types.

Windcoop demonstrates that wind propulsion can move from niche innovation to a scalable industrial solution, offering a credible pathway toward low-carbon shipping while maintaining operational performance and economic viability.