Pioneering Wind-Powered LR2 Tanker Unveiled at Chinese Shipyard

Image Credits: CSSCSWS/X
A recent publication by CGTN highlights the launch of the world’s first wind-assisted long-range 2 (LR2) oil tanker, named ‘Brands Hatch’, which took place at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) on June 11, 2025. This innovative vessel was constructed for Union Maritime Ltd (UML), a UK-based company specializing in tanker operations. It marks the beginning of a series of 14 LR2 tankers that will incorporate wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS), aimed at minimizing fuel consumption and lowering emissions.

Stretching 250 meters in length and 44 meters in width, this Aframax-class ship has the capacity to transport approximately 800,000 barrels of crude oil. It features three rigid WindWings—each standing tall at 37.5 meters—developed by BAR Technologies from the UK and manufactured by CM Energy Tech (CMET) in China. These WindWings are engineered to capture wind energy to enhance propulsion efficiency.

Union Maritime anticipates that this wind-assisted technology coudl lead to an annual reduction of around 1,200 tonnes in fuel usage, translating into over 3,800 tonnes less carbon dioxide emitted each year.

Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding proudly described this new tanker as a significant advancement in enduring shipbuilding on their social media channels. They emphasized how it merges conventional sailing techniques with modern technology for greener shipping solutions.

Last year marked a pivotal partnership between UML and BAR Technologies aimed at outfitting a total of 34 new vessels with wind-assisted systems—including not just LR2 tankers but also chemical tankers and medium-range ships.

according to UML’s projections, each rigid sail is expected to save about 1.5 tonnes of fuel daily while cutting down roughly six tonnes of CO2 emissions per day when navigating standard international routes.

During testing phases conducted by engineers at SWS Design and Research Institute, it was found that under optimal sea conditions with winds reaching speeds up to 20 knots, ‘Brands Hatch’ could potentially save around 14.5 tonnes of fuel every day—equating to about a remarkable savings rate between twelve and fifteen percent!

One notable challenge faced during construction involved integrating the smart sail-assist system effectively; Huang Yiming from SWS noted that achieving precise control was crucial for success. Engineers employed advanced laser positioning techniques alongside high-precision mechanisms ensuring smooth operation for these sizable sails even amidst oceanic conditions.

Image credits: CSSCSWS/X
Laurent Cadji, CEO of Union Maritime, remarked on china’s emergence as a frontrunner in global shipbuilding innovation despite increasing complexities within international shipping dynamics; he underscored China’s commitment to quality as an asset for collaboration.

Currently engaged in constructing over fifty new vessels primarily within Chinese shipyards, UML is also collaborating with Finnish firm Norsepower on installing rotor sails across its smaller fleet options.The sea trials for ‘Brands Hatch’ have commenced already with an official delivery scheduled for June16th; post-delivery operations will focus on routes throughout Europe.
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding has previously completed nearly sixty Aframax tankers while maintaining more than twenty additional orders currently underway.