Mitsubishi Corp & Nihon Shipyard bring WindWings® to Japan
Japan’s Shipping Industry Moves Towards Low-Emission Vessels with BAR Technologies’ WindWings®
A New Partnership for Cleaner Shipping
On November 25, 2024, BAR Technologies, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Nihon Shipyard signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote low-emission shipping in Japan. This partnership focuses on using BAR Technologies’ innovative wind propulsion system, WindWings®, which helps ships reduce fuel consumption and cut carbon emissions.
Mitsubishi Corporation will act as the exclusive agent for WindWings® in Japan. Together, the three companies will explore how to add WindWings® to new and existing ship designs. This collaboration comes after the successful installation of WindWings® on Mitsubishi’s vessel Pyxis Ocean.
Why WindWings®?
WindWings® is a system that uses large wing-like sails to harness the wind, helping ships move more efficiently. By using wind power, ships burn less fuel, which means lower emissions. As Japan is the world’s third-largest shipbuilding nation, this partnership offers an important chance to lead the way in building cleaner vessels.
Expanding the Reach of Wind-Assisted Ships
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, shared his excitement:
“We are thrilled to partner with Mitsubishi and Nihon Shipyard. Japan’s shipbuilding industry has the power to lead the world in low-emission ship design. With many WindWings® already ordered in other markets, it was the right time to bring this technology to Japan. Together, we can help shipping companies meet future emission regulations and reduce their carbon footprint.”
Mitsubishi’s Role in the Partnership
Mitsubishi Corporation will play a key role in bringing WindWings® to the Japanese market. Naoki Arima, General Manager at Mitsubishi, said:
“Our partnership with BAR Technologies and Nihon Shipyard will support the transition to greener shipping. By combining technology, finance, and commercial expertise, we aim to provide Japanese shipping companies with sustainable solutions that align with global environmental goals.”
Nihon Shipyard’s Vision for Low-Emission Design
Nihon Shipyard is eager to help reduce carbon emissions in shipbuilding. Tomoaki Takahira, Chief of Design Division at Nihon Shipyard, commented:
“This MoU will speed up the development of low-emission ships. Working with BAR Technologies and Mitsubishi, we will integrate WindWings® into new and existing ship designs to meet the industry’s demand for lower CO2 emissions.”
The Future of Japanese Shipping
This collaboration marks a significant step for Japan’s shipping industry. By combining BAR Technologies’ advanced wind propulsion system with Mitsubishi’s market reach and Nihon Shipyard’s shipbuilding expertise, the partnership aims to deliver more eco-friendly vessels. This effort not only supports Japan’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions but also provides a model for sustainable shipping on a global scale.
