CMA CGM, Bureau Veritas, & SDARI Collaborate on AI-Powered Container Vessel Concept

CMA CGM, Bureau Veritas (BV), and Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) have initiated a project aimed at creating an assisted containership concept. This collaboration was formalised through a Joint Development Project (JDP) agreement signed at SMM 2026.

The project will investigate the role of digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and decision-support systems in enhancing vessel operations.

Notably, it aims to improve energy efficiency, safety, and operational performance, while also seeking methods to reduce crew workload and ensure seafarers remain engaged in crucial decisions.

Human Supervision is Always Essential

For an aided container vessel, the partners will create a technology-neutral concept. The idea does not, however, seek to remove crew members from ships. Rather, it will look at how technology may assist mariners while preserving operational control and human oversight.

CMA CGM will offer use examples, operating specifications, and the viewpoint of the shipowner.

Likewise, SDARI will offer its knowledge of systems engineering, smart ship technology, and ship design. In the interim, BV will offer knowledge in risk assessment, safety, categorisation, and regulation.

Assessment Project for Onboard Operations

The study aims to identify onboard functions that would benefit from enhanced technological support. Following this identification, partners will choose a concept for further development and evaluate its technical, safety, regulatory, and commercial feasibility.

Moreover, the upcoming phase will involve the creation of a Concept of Operations and Basis of Design documents. These will outline the responsibilities of the crew, the assisted systems, and the support from shore-based facilities.

Additionally, partners will conduct safety and human-factor assessments, employing a risk-based strategy that adheres to BV rules.

Principal Approval Awaiting Finalisation

The final concept will be transformed into technical specifications, accompanied by an application for Approval in Principle (AiP). Furthermore, the study will provide high-level estimates for both capital and operating costs, and a development roadmap will be created.

According to President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, Alex Gregg-Smith, decision-support technologies can significantly enhance energy efficiency and operational performance in maritime contexts. They also promote safety and alleviate repetitive workloads on seafarers.

At last, executive Vice President of the CMA CGM Group, Christine Cabau Woehrel, emphasised the role of AI and technology in enhancing safety and efficiency in shipping. Nonetheless, she highlighted the continued necessity of crew expertise and involvement as these new technologies emerge.

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