DNV GL Sees Hybrid Propulsion, Connectivity as Hot Trends
Hybrid propulsion systems and connected ship solutions are emerging technologies that are gaining ground faster than expected, according to Tor E. Svensen, CEO DNV GL – Maritime, giving an update on the classification society's Shipping 2020 report. "While operational efficiency and emissions reductions are the main motivators behind these developments, the update shows that the future fuel mix will be much more diverse," Svensen said. Though LNG as a ship fuel was one of the standouts in the 2012 report, its prediction of up to 1,000 LNG-fueled vessels by 2020 will most likely not be met, due to continuing high investment costs and slower development of infrastructure. However, as more bunkering options come in place, growth could accelerate, he added.
DNV GL sees Hybrid Propulsion, Connectivity the Emerging Trends
With 2020 in sight, DNV GL looked at the lessons to be learned from the update to the classification society’s “Shipping 2020” report which was published in 2012. Now, three years later, hybrid propulsion systems and connected ship solutions are emerging technologies that are gaining ground faster than expected, outlined Tor E. Svensen, CEO DNV GL – Maritime, at the opening day of Nor-Shipping in Oslo. “While operational efficiency and emissions reductions are the main motivators behind these developments, the update shows that the future fuel mix will be much more diverse,” Svensen said. LNG as a ship fuel was one of the standouts from the last report…
MCP Inks Mobile, Internet Deal for 33 Carnival Ships
MCP has signed a long-term contract with Carnival Corporation to provide 33 cruise ships with advanced mobile cellular communication services. The agreement provides close to 130,000 people each day mobile voice, texting (SMS) and data (mobile internet) coverage while at sea. In order to deliver mobile solutions to crew and passengers, Carnival Corporation has signed a multi-year contract serving six of the company’s nine brands. The agreement is a consolidation and extension of existing agreements and the addition of new ships.
Barge Terminal Opened in Singapore
New Marina South Wharves lighter terminal opened in the Port of Singapore. Developed by Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) at a cost of $16 million, MSW will complement the existing lighter terminal at Penjuru. MSW will be particularly useful for lighter operators serving ships in the Eastern anchorages, given the shorter travelling distances and thus lower operating costs. MSW is purpose-built with crane lifting, cargo handling, mooring and berth facilities to meet the needs of ship suppliers and lighter operators. The development comprises a 100-metres wharf structure and a single storey administration building. Jurong Port Pte Ltd has implemented a new Lighter Wharf Management System (LWMS) at MSW to streamline transactions.
NewCom, KVH Provide Global Broadband
NewCom International, a global provider of communications services via satellite, IP, and fiber, has been selected by KVH Industries to market its Mini-VSAT Broadband Service to the commercial maritime and government sectors throughout the globe, with a focus on Latin America. The Mini-VSAT Broadband Service tracks satellites and automatically shifts to different satellite footprints as necessary. The service enables vessels ranging from cargo and military ships to cruisers to access cost-efficient high-speed broadband coverage while on the move, regardless of where they are in the world. “Until this service, there was no way for vessels to access mobile telecom and Internet coverage globally and automatically unless they utilized satellite phone service…
Navionics Chart Support Added to iPhone
Software manufacturer Northport Systems Inc. announced that its popular Fugawi X-Traverse online map collection for use with iNavX marine software for the Apple iPhone now supports Navionics marine and outdoor charts. Adding to iNavX’s support of raster maps including NOAA RNC, Swedish Marine Charts, and TRAK Maps, users now have subscription-based, fingertip access to world-wide Navionics Gold+ international marine, HotMaps Premium North American fishing and European Discovery outdoor charts from www.X-Traverse.com. Navionics charts are downloaded directly into iNavX software through the iPhone’s internet connection (Edge, 3G or WiFi) and saved locally on the phone for use when outside of cell phone or WiFi internet coverage.
