Econowind scales up for the deepsea market with the launch of the 30-metre 5-series VentoFoil, a steel suction wing system designed to drastically reduce fuel consumption on global trade routes. Debuting this summer with Boomsma Shipping and backed by new production hubs in the Far East, this innovative technology provides a proven, bridge-controlled solution for maritime decarbonization. As fuel prices and regulatory pressures like FuelEU Maritime mount, the 5-series offers oceangoing operators a practical path to significant energy efficiency and emissions compliance.
Netherlands | April 13, 2026 – In a move set to reshape the economics of long-haul shipping, Dutch wind-assisted ship propulsion (WAPS) pioneer Econowind has officially entered the deepsea market with the launch of its 5-series VentoFoil.
Unveiled last week at a private ceremony in Heeg, the 5-series is a 30-metre steel suction wing system specifically engineered for the rigors of oceangoing vessels. This larger iteration builds on the commercial success of the company’s 16-metre 3-series, promising significantly higher fuel savings for larger tonnage operating on global trade routes.
The Evolution of Suction Wing Technology
The 5-series represents a strategic scaling of Econowind’s patented boundary-layer suction technology. By using an internal fan to create a pressure differential across the wing’s surface, the VentoFoil generates immense thrust relative to its size, effectively “pulling” the vessel forward and allowing the main engine to be throttled back.
While the 3-series became a staple for shortsea and regional tankers, most notably with Chemship’s recent report of 15% fuel savings, the 5-series is designed for the “Big League”:
- Height: 30 metres (Steel construction).
- Target Vessels: Bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships on long-haul deepsea routes.
- Operational Flexibility: Bridge-controlled with a “tilt” function to clear air-draught restrictions and facilitate port cargo operations.
A Proven Concept for Global Trade
With over 150 units already sold, Econowind is no longer in the “pilot phase.” The company is now pivoting toward the massive demand created by high fuel prices and tightening environmental regulations like FuelEU Maritime and the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII).
“The 3-series has shown that our technology works in daily operations,” said Chiel de Leeuw, Chief Commercial Officer of Econowind. “With the 5-series, we are bringing that proven concept into the deepsea market. This is the next growth frontier for wind-assisted propulsion.”
To facilitate this global expansion, Econowind confirmed it is organizing production in the Far East. By moving manufacturing closer to major shipbuilding hubs in China and Korea, the company aims to streamline the integration of VentoFoils into newbuild projects and reduce the logistics costs of retrofitting global fleets.
Boomsma Shipping: The First Mover
The commercial debut of the 5-series is slated for this summer on a vessel operated by Boomsma Shipping. For the Dutch owner, this isn’t an experiment; it’s a standard operating procedure.
Johan Boomsma of Boomsma Shipping provided a comprehensive statement on the fleet’s transition:
“As a returning customer, we are pleased to use VentoFoils again on our vessels, now in the form of the 5-series. Wind propulsion has proven its value both economically and environmentally. With high fuel prices adding to the urgency, this is a logical next step for us. Energy efficiency is high on our agenda, which is why our eight newbuild vessels will be all delivered wind-ready. The first, Frisian Future, will enter service in May.”
Technical Profile: The VentoFoil Advantage
The VentoFoil distinguishes itself from traditional sails through its use of boundary-layer suction. An internal fan creates a pressure difference that generates significantly more thrust relative to the wing’s surface area.
Key features for deepsea operations include:
- Operational Robustness: Steel construction designed to withstand harsh open-ocean environments.
- Bridge-Controlled: Fully automated operation requiring no additional crew.
- Minimal Deck Impact: Compact footprint compared to traditional sail systems.
- Versatile Design: Units can be tilted to accommodate cargo operations or air-draught limitations under bridges.
Key Technical Features of the VentoFoil 5-Series:
| Feature | Specification / Benefit |
| Material | High-grade Steel (designed for high-seas durability) |
| Control | Fully automated from the Bridge; no extra crew required |
| Safety | Tiltable design for heavy weather and port maneuvers |
| Efficiency | Reduces main engine load via boundary-layer suction |
| Logistics | New Far East production to lower lead times for newbuilds |
Industry Impact: A Practical Path to Net Zero
For the maritime sector, the rise of the 5-series signals a permanent shift in the “fuel mix” of the future. As deepsea vessels begin to harvest “free” wind energy at scale, the demand profile for traditional and alternative fuels will likely see a downward adjustment on specific trade lanes.
As the Frisian Future prepares for its May launch and the first 5-series installation follows this summer, the maritime industry will be watching closely to see how much the “wind-assisted” era can chip away at the global bunker bill.
About Econowind
Based in the Netherlands, Econowind develops patented wind-assisted propulsion systems. With a portfolio ranging from containerized units to fixed 30-metre wings, the company provides scalable, cost-effective solutions for the global maritime industry’s journey toward decarbonization.
Source: Econowind