CMA CGM Names New Methanol-Powered Container Ship ‘CMA CGM Helium’ Built by HD Hyundai Samho

France-based shipping major CMA CGM has officially named its latest dual-fuel methanol-powered container vessel, CMA CGM Helium, at a ceremony held in South Korea. The new 13,000 TEU vessel forms part of a 12-ship series ordered from HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, one of South Korea’s leading shipbuilders.

13,000 TEU Methanol-Fuelled Vessel Joins CMA CGM Fleet

The CMA CGM Helium, flying under the Maltese flag, measures 335 meters in length and 51 meters in beam. The vessel represents the latest step in CMA CGM’s fleet decarbonisation programme, which aims to expand the company’s dual-fuel capacity across its global network.

Following the ceremony, CMA CGM confirmed that the vessel has been deployed on its Phoenician Express (BEX2) service, connecting China, Korea, Singapore, Egypt, Lebanon, Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.

Built Under $2 Billion Order with HD Hyundai

The newbuilding is part of a KRW 2.52 trillion ($2 billion) order placed by CMA CGM in February 2023 with HD Hyundai. The 12-vessel series includes several 13,000 TEU-class ships designed for dual-fuel propulsion using conventional marine fuel and methanol.

The first vessel from this series, the CMA CGM Iron, was delivered in March 2024 and became the first methanol dual-fuel vessel in CMA CGM’s fleet. It was deployed on the company’s CIMEX1 service, linking Asia and the Middle East Gulf region, and made its maiden call at the Port of Singapore on March 4.

Methanol as a Key Fuel in CMA CGM’s Decarbonisation Strategy

CMA CGM has been expanding its alternative-fuel fleet, including vessels powered by LNG and methanol, as part of its target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Methanol, which can be produced from renewable or low-carbon sources, is seen as a critical pathway fuel for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport.

The company’s ongoing collaboration with leading shipyards such as HD Hyundai supports its strategy to scale up green fleet capacity while maintaining operational flexibility across global trade routes.