- China has delivered the world’s first sail-assisted Aframax tanker, Brands Hatch, to UK-based Union Maritime, marking a significant step in sustainable ship design.
- The vessel features three 40-meter fiberglass sails that can cut daily fuel consumption by up to 14.5 tons under optimal conditions.
- Built in Shanghai, the tanker reflects China’s growing leadership in green shipbuilding and will operate on European routes after its official handover on June 16.
China is set to deliver the world’s first sail-assisted Aframax tanker to the UK-based Union Maritime, marking a significant step forward in the country’s push for greener maritime solutions. Named Brands Hatch, the vessel is built in Shanghai and features three 40-meter fiberglass sails designed to harness wind power and reduce fuel consumption. This innovation distinguishes it from conventional Aframax tankers, which are widely used in the oil trade.
Tanker Sets New Standard for Green Innovation in Oil Transport
The Brands Hatch represents a significant advancement in sustainable tanker design. According to Huang Yiming, Assistant Dean at the Design and Research Institute of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, the use of sails can save up to 14.5 tons of fuel per day under ideal sea conditions with wind speeds of 20 knots, translating to a fuel efficiency improvement of roughly 12% to 15%. The most technically demanding aspect of the project was installing and calibrating the intelligent sail-assisted system, particularly ensuring the stability and precision operation of the three 40-meter sails. Laser positioning and high-precision control methods were essential to reliably manage the sails’ movements.
Union Maritime, the UK-based vessel owner, praised the project’s execution and emphasized its alignment with its green transition goals. Founded in 2006, the company is actively expanding its fleet with over 50 new vessels under construction, many of which are in China. Laurent Cadji, chief executive of Union Maritime, acknowledged China’s leadership in global shipbuilding, citing its focus on quality and innovation. Measuring nearly 250 meters in length and 44 meters in width, Brands Hatch can transport up to 800,000 barrels of crude oil. Once delivered on June 16, it will operate primarily on European routes.
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Source: CGTN
