A memorandum of understanding has been signed between HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and Bar Technologies to establish a strategic partnership focused on technical collaboration and commercial opportunities for Bar Technologies’ patented WindWings.
WingWings are large-scale, automated rigid wing sails fitted onto commercial cargo vessels and tankers. Using a patented three-element wing design, they are said to generate 2.5 times the lift of a single wing without needing continuous power – while delivering considerable fuel savings and significantly lower CO₂ emissions.
Unlike other wind-assisted propulsion systems, WindWings requires no continuous power for suction fans or mechanical spinning. They automatically adjust camber and angle of attack for optimized efficiency across a wide range of wind conditions.
The agreement establishes a joint engineering approach at the vessel design stage, enabling a more integrated and consistent application of WindWings in new-build vessels.
The two companies will collaborate on the technical development of interfacing the WindWings control system with HHI’s integrated vessel control system and developing performance verification methodologies to support scalable commercial deployment.
The collaboration is expected to support the expansion of wind-assisted propulsion across a broader range of vessel segments, including gas carriers, as shipowners seek viable solutions to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
The MOU has an initial term of three years and is described as a response to intensifying regulatory and commercial pressures, as wind-assisted propulsion becomes a solution to reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency under tightening regulatory frameworks.
Hongryeul Ryu, senior executive vice president and CTO of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, said, “Through this commercial and technical collaboration with BAR Technologies, and the joint development of WindWings, we aim to support the wider adoption and technical advancement of wind-assisted propulsion systems as a key element of next-generation maritime transport.”
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, said, “We already have WindWings deployed across a significant number of new-build vessels. Partnering with world-class shipyards like HHI is how wind propulsion moves from early adoption into mainstream shipbuilding.”
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