Lloyd’s Register (LR) says it has played a central role in the successful delivery of ‘Brands Hatch’, believed to be the world’s first newbuild Aframax tanker equipped with wind-assisted propulsion.
Built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) for Union Maritime Limited (UML), the 114,000 dwt vessel is now the most powerful wind-assisted cargo ship in operation.
The LR-classed vessel is fitted with three 37.5m-tall WindWings developed by UK-based BAR Technologies. These rigid sails are capable of intelligent aerodynamic adjustment in angle and camber to optimise aerodynamic efficiency, providing additional thrust that reduces fuel consumption and lowers carbon emissions.
The system has achieved independently verified performance results, reducing daily fuel consumption by up to 14.5t and emissions by up to 45t CO2e under ideal wind conditions at 20 knots. Under typical operating conditions, the vessel is projected to achieve an annual fuel saving of 12%, equating to a reduction of nearly 5,000t CO2e per year.
As the first classification society in China to support a wind-assisted propulsion system on a crude oil tanker, LR provided full technical services from design to delivery. This included Approval in Principle (AiP), Hazid/Hazop processes, design appraisal, and coordination with flag authorities to ensure the WindWings installation met rigorous safety and compliance standards. LR’s involvement extended to installation supervision and sea trials, which confirmed the system’s performance and seaworthiness.
Tom Wolodarsky, Senior Surveyor and Lead Specialist WAPS, LR Marine & Offshore, North Europe, said: “This project represents a major leap forward in the adoption of wind-assisted propulsion for large ocean-going vessels. We are proud to support UML and their partners in proving that modern wind propulsion technology is commercially viable, class-compliant and delivers tangible environmental benefits. With rising regulatory pressures and increased demand for decarbonisation, wind propulsion offers a practical, scalable route to lower emissions.”
Tony Han, Lead Specialist, LR, added: “As the first vessel in China to be equipped with the wind-wing system, LR has provided a comprehensive range of technical services to our clients. From drawing approvals to commissioning tests, LR has demonstrated its strong technical expertise in supporting the client. Building on the success of this project, we are looking to expand our collaboration with clients regarding the application of this new technology in the ship industry.”
John Cooper, CEO BAR Technologies, said: “The WindWings equipped vessel forms part of UML’s broader energy transition strategy, and the success of this project paves the way for additional vessels of similar size and configuration under LR Class. This includes another with the same owner, ship type and technology that is already underway at Yangzijiang Shipyard, with WindWings again manufactured by China Merchants Energy Tech in Shanghai.”
Sau Weng Tang, LR Greater China President, said: “The Brands Hatch project marks a significant milestone in bringing innovative technology into commercial shipbuilding. It reflects the strong collaboration between LR and Chinese shipyards in driving the transition to greener shipping. Our full technical involvement throughout the project has ensured the vessel meets the highest international standards for safety, performance, and compliance.”
Image: ‘Brands Hatch’, most powerful wind-assisted vessel currently afloat (source: Lloyd’s Register)
