In China, China Environmental News reports China State Shipbuilding’s Wuchang yard has entered final assembly on what it says is the world’s first methanol dual-fuel ro-ro vessel with wind-assisted propulsion. Construction began on October 24, 2024; delivery to French owner Louis Dreyfus Armateurs is scheduled for 2026.
The vessel will use methanol as its main fuel and be equipped with six Flettner rotors, cylindrical chimney-like sails installed at the bow, stern, and midship that generate forward thrust from crosswinds using the Magnus effect. When operational, it will carry more wind-assisted propulsion units than any existing ro-ro ship.
The design integrates automated systems for energy efficiency monitoring and propulsion management. According to shipyard sources, the combined system is expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining transport performance.
More on the story
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
