A Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop a 50,000 MR tanker incorporating wind-assisted propulsion has been signed by Lloyd’s Register, K Shipbuilding, bound4blue, and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR).
The concept will incorporate bound4blue’s eSAIL technology, which uses suction sail principles to harness wind energy and deliver direct thrust, to improve efficiency, fuel consumption and help support compliance with emissions regulations.
The partners will carry out technical and regulatory evaluation of the design, including assessments against the latest class rules and International Maritime Organization requirements. Lloyd’s Register will provide technical assurance, design appraisal and support the process towards Approval in Principle (AiP), while working with LISCR on regulatory alignment.
Alberto Pérez, Head of Maritime Commercial Markets, Lloyd’s Register commented: “this agreement reflects Lloyd’s Register’s continued focus on enabling maritime decarbonisation through practical, scalable solutions. By supporting the development of next-generation tanker designs, we are helping shipowners and operators navigate the transition to lower-carbon operations while maintaining commercial viability.”
Thomas Klenum, Executive Vice President, Liberian Registry, commented: “integrating wind-assisted propulsion on MR tankers can reduce emissions while strengthening the sustainability and competitiveness of global shipping, and thereby we are helping to unlock immediate fuel savings and emissions reductions while strengthening long-term regulatory compliance.”
K Shipbuilding is a South Korean mid-sized shipbuilder with extensive experience in the design and construction of a wide range of commercial vessels, including Chemical Tankers, Oil/Product Tankers, Gas Carriers, Bunkering Vessels, Container Ships and Bulk Carriers.
