Meet Oceanbird, a massive sailing cargo ship that should bring in the new, sustainable “Age of Sail” and reduce transatlantic travel emissions by 90%.
While still undergoing sea trials, this futuristic wind-powered ship is planned to enter full-scale production by 2021, with the first vessels delivered by 2024.
Inhabitat reports that the ship is co-financed by the Swedish Transport Administration, while the Royal Institute of Technology is giving an expert contribution in aerodynamics, sailing mechanics, and performance.
“Oceanbird shows that major sustainable changes are possible in the maritime shipping industry, which currently accounts for 90% of global freight. While seafaring began with sails, diesel engines have become the mainstay over the past 100 years, accomplishing faster crossings at the expense of the environment. The project brings together experts in both the private and public sectors.”
The new wind-powered ship will be 200 meters long and 40 meters wide, while the 80-meter sails will be twice as tall as the tallest sailing ship today.
However, the most striking design feature is the hull, which is specially designed to work with the five rigs as one unit.
The new sustainable freighter is designed for car and truck shipments. It’ll be able to carry up to 7,000 cars, crossing the Atlantic in 12 days.
For a ship without a single smokestack, that’s not too shabby.
