Yara Marine launches Route Pilot AI to optimize voyage efficiency

Yara Marine Technologies (Yara Marine) launches Route Pilot AI, a cloud-based AI-powered ship operation support system that utilizes high-frequency data to calculate the most advantageous propulsion settings for upcoming voyages. The AI, which uses digital twin modeling to simulate operational parameters, will enable ship and shore-based personnel to calculate optimal working parameters to lower fuel consumption and realize the most energy-efficient voyage, says the company in a press release.

Mikael Laurin, Head of Business Line Vessel Optimization at Yara Marine, said: “Upcoming EEXI and CII regulations will require ship-owners and operators to implement immediate, future-proof solutions that ensure long-term operational efficiency and reduced emissions. The need is further exacerbated by other developments within the industry, such as rising costs, fuel shortages, and the ongoing crewing crisis. At Yara Marine, we believe that a data and automation system like Route Pilot AI offers an effective and flexible solution that allows operators to remain competitive and advance the industry’s transition to Net Zero.”

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Energy-efficient voyages

Route Pilot AI builds on Yara Marine’s current propulsion optimization solution, FuelOpt, which enables real-time execution of energy-efficient voyages and the associated performance management system Fleet Analytics, which is used to analyze and define best practices over time. The AI-powered system’s digital twin modeling draws on existing vessel data from previous voyages and historical sea conditions. These data are used to assess forecasted environmental conditions and calculate peak operational parameters for the vessel and route in question when carrying out the same transport work. Additionally, by employing machine learning, the system improves the AI-model’s fuel optimization capabilities with each new voyage.

Digital twins

Digital twin modeling and the use of AI also enable effective fleet management and improve communication between vessels and shore teams. When using Route Pilot AI, alternative routes can be assessed and compared in its voyage forecast performance system. Ship-owners and operators have access to enhanced decision-making as the AI compares a variety of estimated times of arrival and departure and evaluates which vessel in the operator’s fleet would be most suitable for the specific route in question. As a result, it sets smarter, more efficient operational parameters to optimize fuel consumption. These optimized parameters are then carried out by the FuelOpt system which adjusts propulsion while accounting for changing internal and external surroundings.