Norwegian Ship Uses its Massive Hull as a Built-In Sail

Wind power and wind-resistant technology aren’t the first things you would think of when designing a cargo ship. But a Norwegian firm has unveiled one with a hull so big it acts as an aeronautical sail.

Designed by Lade AS, The Vindskip has a hull that’s like a massive airfoil. Its design allows it to be powered by the wind, creating a force similar to lift to carry it through the sea.

The Vindskip’s aeronautical qualities allow a 60 per cent decrease in fuel usage and a whopping 80 per cent decrease in harmful emissions. Lade says it could eventually be used on cruise ships and plans to license the design in the future.