Bureau Veritas, CMA CGM and SDARI launch a Joint Development Project for an assisted container vessel concept at SMM.
CMA CGM, Bureau Veritas (BV) and Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) have launched a project to develop an assisted containership concept.
The partners signed a Joint Development Project (JDP) agreement during SMM 2026.
The project will examine how digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI) and decision-support systems can improve vessel operations.
It will focus on energy efficiency, safety and operational performance. The partners will also explore ways to reduce crew workload while keeping seafarers involved in key decisions.
Human oversight remains central
The partners will develop a technology-neutral concept for an assisted container vessel.
However, the project does not aim to remove crews from ships. Instead, it will examine how technology can support seafarers while maintaining human oversight and operational control.
CMA CGM will provide operational requirements, use cases and the shipowner perspective.
SDARI will contribute its expertise in ship design, systems engineering and smart ship technologies. Meanwhile, BV will provide expertise in classification, safety, regulation and risk assessment.
Project to assess onboard functions
The study will first identify which onboard functions could benefit most from greater technological assistance.
The partners will then select a concept for further development. They will assess its technical, safety, regulatory and commercial feasibility.
The next stage will include a Concept of Operations and Basis of Design.
These will define the roles of the crew, assisted systems and shore-based support.
The partners will also carry out safety and human-factor assessments using a risk-based approach aligned with BV rules.
Approval in Principle planned
The final concept will be developed into technical specifications.
The partners also plan to submit an application for Approval in Principle (AiP).
In addition, the study will include high-level estimates for capital and operating costs. A development roadmap will also be prepared.
“Decision-support technologies have the potential to improve energy efficiency and operational performance, enhance safety and reduce the burden of repetitive tasks on seafarers,” said Alex Gregg-Smith, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President of the CMA CGM Group in charge of Operations and Assets, said AI and technology could support safer and more efficient shipping.
However, she stressed that crew expertise and participation would remain essential as new technologies develop.