China Classification Society (CCS) and Wärtsilä Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. will work together on new ship technology projects, particularly research on liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel ships, under a newly signed agreement.
The two companies say they will "carry out a comprehensive cooperation" in ship design, ship power systems, ship automation, environmental protection, and energy saving technologies.
The agreement prioritises research and development of LNG dual-fuel ships and work on technical standards for dual-fuel engines and system arrangements.
Wärtsilä Corporation is already active in the Chinese market, and in July it announced plans to supply LNG-capable main engines for two Chinese tugs, the first gas-powered vessels for the nation.
However, China Marine Bunker Supply Company (Chimbusco) said in November that few Chinese shipowners are likely to switch to LNG fuel.
