Asia partners up in ship design

Simon Laing from Sinopacific, said: “Our cooperation with MHI once again proves that Sinopacific is striding ahead in integrating international resources and implementing technology-driven strategy.”

MHI are clearly looking to actively participate in China’s booming shipbuilding market and has cited the reason for choosing to form a strategic partnership with Sinopacific because it’s: “One of the most efficient bulk carriers in China.”

It is hoped that the 82,000 dwt Crown MHI 82 will become the flagship in Sinopacific’s Crown bulk carrier series. The development project aims to exceed international standards in terms of efficiency, environmental impact and operability.

The vessel’s predecessor, the Crown 63 bulk carrier was well known for acquiring the first global Energy Efficient Design Index (EEDI) certificate.

MHI will support Sinopacific by helping to optimise the ship’s design. Testing of the Crown MHI 82 will take place at MHI’s Nagasaki Research & Development Center and the whole joint design project is is expected to be completed in the second half of 2012.

The ship will be built by Yangzhou Dayang Shipbuilding Co. Ltd and development is scheduled for completion in 2013.