Infineon, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Jointly Develop Ship Electrification Technology

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Infineon Technologies AG and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co. Ltd. have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a first step towards jointly developing emerging applications for the electrification of marine engines and machinery using energy-efficient power semiconductor technology.

HD KSOE, a marine pioneer and global leader in ship building, is already focusing on creating eco-friendly decarbonized ship technology that uses electricity and hydrogen. The company will now cooperate with Infineon to create innovative power solutions for propulsion drive technology, a core element for ship electrification. Power semiconductors from Infineon drive the transformation towards clean, safe, and smart mobility services across all means of transportation. For modern maritime applications they are a key factor in guaranteeing a precise control of multiple power modules, such as large-capacity propulsion drives.

Infineon will provide HD KSOE with technical assistance and mentoring in semiconductor power modules and system solutions, as well as share information on new semiconductor trends for marine applications. With the partnership HD KSOE aims to enhance reliability and performance of marine vessels’ propulsion drive technology contributing to environmental sustainability through the electrification of ships.

Worldwide, maritime transport is responsible for almost 2.5 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization. It produces one billion tons of CO 2 each year. The transition to electric ships is imperative to mitigate the environmental impact of maritime transportation.

"We are pleased to sign an MoU with Infineon, which underpins our innovation efforts to become a leader in ship electrification technology," said Chang Kwang-pil, Chief Technology Officer of HD KSOE. "Together, we will combine our strengths to create energy-efficient power solutions for CO2-friendly propulsion drives."

"At Infineon we are providing the technologies needed in today's world of transportation to drive electrification that will shape the future of mobility," said Dr. Peter Wawer, Division President Green Industrial Power at Infineon Technologies. "We are excited to work closely together with HD KSOE to develop clean, safe and smart mobility solutions. This way, we contribute to a more sustainable marine engine ecosystem and drive the decarbonization of shipping."