Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), one of the world’s largest shipping companies, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Neptune Robotics to accelerate fleet-wide decarbonisation through robotic hull cleaning technology.

NYK first adopted Neptune’s automated cleaning systems in 2022, making it one of the earliest major shipping companies to integrate robotic solutions into operations. Trials demonstrated fuel savings up to ten times the cost of cleaning, alongside significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The new agreement expands this collaboration across NYK’s global fleet, aiming to scale robotic hull cleaning as a core strategy for reducing fuel consumption and carbon output. To reinforce the partnership, NYK also participated in Neptune’s $52 million Series B funding round led by Granite Asia, aligning investment with operational deployment.

Hidehiko Sato, General Manager of NYK’s Ship Business Group, highlighted that Neptune’s technology maximizes hull protection while improving fuel efficiency and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. “Through this partnership, we aim to contribute to decarbonisation not only within our fleet but across the wider shipping industry,” Sato said.

By scaling robotic cleaning across its car carriers, container ships, and energy carriers, NYK is further embedding decarbonisation measures into its long-term strategy. The initiative supports the company’s wider sustainability agenda, reinforcing its position as a frontrunner in digital innovation and green shipping solutions.