Daihatsu Diesel Corporation Acquisition

Imabari Shipbuilding’s strategic acquisition of 15.47% shares in Daihatsu Diesel Corporation is a pivotal move aimed at advancing the development of alternative-fueled engines and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This acquisition is set to close on April 1, 2025 [Imabari Shipbuilding]. The strategic partnership is particularly focused on leveraging Daihatsu Diesel’s expertise in ammonia-fueled engines, which aligns with Japan’s ambitious Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project. Daihatsu Diesel’s Himeji Plant is at the forefront of this initiative, developing a “Test Operation Facility for Supplying 4-Stroke Ammonia-Fueled Engines” [Daihatsu Diesel’s Himeji Plant]. This project aims to produce more than 60 four-stroke ammonia-fueled engines per year by around 2040, with the long-term goal of capturing a 40% share of the global market for medium- and large-sized ocean-going cargo ships. This ambitious target underscores Imabari Shipbuilding’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices and its role in shaping the future of the shipping industry. The integration of Daihatsu Diesel’s technology and expertise will not only enhance Imabari Shipbuilding’s capabilities in developing and supplying alternative-fueled engines but also position it as a leader in the transition towards zero-emission shipping [Japan’s Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project].

Collaboration with Hitachi Zosen

Imabari Shipbuilding has also collaborated with Hitachi Zosen on marine diesel engines and has a 35% stake in Hitachi Zosen’s marine engine business. This collaboration is part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance Imabari Shipbuilding’s capabilities in developing and supplying marine diesel engines. The agreement allows Imabari Shipbuilding to acquire a 35% stake in the new company formed by Hitachi Zosen’s spin-off of its marine diesel engine business. This strategic move is a significant step towards Imabari Shipbuilding’s goal of becoming a leader in sustainable and alternative-fueled engine solutions. The collaboration not only strengthens Imabari’s position in the marine engine market but also positions it to benefit from Hitachi Zosen’s extensive expertise and technological advancements in marine diesel engines. Imabari Shipbuilding’s acquisition of a 15.47% stake in Hitachi Zosen’s marine engine business, as revealed on January 28, 2025, is a testament to its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The acquisition is planned to close on April 1, 2025 [infomarine].

Development of Ammonia-Fueled Engines

Daihatsu Diesel’s Himeji Plant is developing a “Test Operation Facility for Supplying 4-Stroke Ammonia-Fueled Engines,” part of Japan’s Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project. The project aims to produce more than 60 four-stroke ammonia-fueled engines per year by around 2040 and achieve a 40% share of the global market for medium- and large-sized ocean-going cargo ships. This initiative is a significant step towards reducing the carbon footprint of maritime transportation and aligns with Japan’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The development of ammonia-fueled engines is part of a broader effort to diversify fuel sources and enhance the efficiency of marine propulsion systems. Daihatsu Diesel’s investment in this technology underscores its role in advancing sustainable practices within the maritime industry [Imabari Shipbuilding sets sights on alternative-fueled engines through new acquisition].

Japan’s Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project

Japan’s Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project is a significant initiative aimed at fostering the development and commercialization of zero-emission ships. This project encompasses 16 proposals for zero-emission vessels, utilizing fuels such as ammonia and hydrogen, with a total investment exceeding JPY 120 billion. The project’s primary objective is to support the maritime industry in reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thereby contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change. Imabari Shipbuilding, a key player in this initiative, has set its sights on alternative-fueled engines through a strategic acquisition. Under an agreement revealed on January 28, 2025, Imabari intends to purchase 15.47% shares in a company focused on developing zero-emission marine engines. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to enhance Imabari’s capabilities in sustainable engine solutions, aligning with the project’s goals of promoting zero-emission technologies in the maritime sector [Imabari Shipbuilding].

Conclusion

Imabari Shipbuilding’s strategic moves, including the acquisition of shares in Daihatsu Diesel Corporation and collaboration with Hitachi Zosen, highlight a commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry. These initiatives not only align with global environmental goals but also position Imabari Shipbuilding as a leader in developing alternative-fueled engines and reducing GHG emissions.

Sources

• infomarine – Imabari Shipbuilding sets sights on alternative-fueled engines through new acquisition