From Antwerp to Japan with ABC and CMB.TECH

Starting this summer, hydrogen-powered ships will begin operating in Japanese waters, thanks in part to the expertise of our WIC members!

As part of an agreement to accelerate the maritime energy transition, BeHydro (a joint venture between Gent-based engine builder ABC and Antwerp shipping company CMB.TECH) has partnered with not one, but two Japanese shipbuilding projects to introduce hydrogen engines in Japan (DAIHATSU INFINEARTH and JPNH2YDRO). The agreement was officially signed last week in Tokyo, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid of Belgium.

Two V12 BeHydro dual-fuel hydrogen engines will be installed in a tugboat currently under construction at Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, with delivery expected in July. Additionally, three inline 6-cylinder 100% hydrogen engines will power a fully CO₂-free vessel developed by JPNH₂YDRO. Already deployed in commercial applications across Europe, the BeHydro engines will now be tailored to meet Japanese standards.

Click here for more details on the collaboration.