Klaveness Combination Carriers ASA (KCC), a leader in the maritime industry, through its subsidiary, has entered into a groundbreaking agreement with Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. and Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. to install its first Wind Assisted Propulsion System (WAPS) on the third CABU III newbuilding, set for delivery in Q3 2026. This pioneering project will feature two bound4blue eSAILs® suction sails, which will stand at an impressive 24 meters in height, making them the largest suction sails ever installed on a vessel.
The decision to implement bound4blue’s innovative eSAILs® was the result of an extensive evaluation of alternative sail technologies. KCC’s analysis determined that the eSAILs® offered the most efficient solution for the specific vessels and trade routes considered. This technology harnesses wind power to create clean forward thrust, thereby significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions from the vessel’s main engine.
Technical Innovations and Benefits
The two eSAILs® will be strategically positioned at the bow of the vessel, optimizing operational efficiency during port activities. Utilizing a fan system, the eSAILs® drag air across their aerodynamically designed surfaces to enhance propulsive efficiency. The eSAILs® are available in three model sizes, from 12 meters to 36 meters in height, with KCC committing to the installation of the largest model, known as model 3.
This installation aligns with KCC’s ambitious environmental goals, aiming to cut the carbon intensity of its fleet by over 45% by the end of this decade, relative to 2018 levels. KCC has established a strong reputation for trading efficiency, boasting a 30-40% lower carbon footprint than standard vessels. To support this commitment, the company has invested USD 32 million in 15 different energy efficiency measures, which are expected to collectively reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 15% across its modern fleet built post-2015.
Engebret Dahm, CEO of Klaveness Combination Carriers, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with bound4blue, stating, “We, at KCC, are excited to partner up with bound4blue on its journey of exploring and utilizing innovative wind-assisted propulsion solutions on our fleet. This technology has large potential for reducing carbon emissions and is expected to become an important lever for the industry to reach its decarbonization targets.”
David Ferrer, co-founder and CTO of bound4blue, highlighted the significance of this agreement, noting, “We’re thrilled to sign this new agreement with a shipowner of the standing of KCC. This is a landmark contract for us in many respects, becoming not only the largest eSAIL® the world has seen, but also our first newbuild project in China. It will give KCC a proven, autonomous, and operationally efficient solution. We look forward to partnering with the KCC team as they help lead the ‘wind revolution’ in this key shipping segment.”
As KCC embarks on this innovative journey with bound4blue, the shipping industry watches closely, anticipating the impact of wind-assisted propulsion on future vessel designs and operational efficiencies.
About bound4blue
Founded in 2014, bound4blue specializes in developing automated wind-assisted propulsion systems aimed at helping shipowners and shipping companies reduce fuel costs and emissions. The eSAIL® system has been validated as an effective solution for fuel savings and emissions reduction, with features that ensure autonomy, low maintenance, and easy installation onboard. It is applicable to various vessel types, including tankers, bulkers, and general cargo vessels, irrespective of their size or age.
The company is headquartered in Cantabria, Spain, with additional offices in Barcelona and Singapore, and has successfully installed its eSAIL® system on four ships, collaborating with prominent industry players such as Eastern Pacific Shipping and Odfjell.
About Klaveness Combination Carriers ASA (KCC)
Klaveness Combination Carriers is the world leader in combination carriers, operating eight CABU and eight CLEANBU combination carriers, with three additional CABU vessels currently under construction for 2026 delivery. KCC’s vessels are designed for the efficient transport of both wet and dry bulk cargoes, significantly reducing emissions—by up to 40% less CO2 per transported ton compared to standard tanker and dry bulk vessels.