Oceanbird has introduced its first prototype wing sail, marking a significant step in wind-assisted propulsion. Unveiled at an event in Sweden on August 25, the company plans to install its first sail on a vessel by 2026. Founded in 2021 through a partnership between Wallenius Lines and Alfa Laval, Oceanbird has spent over three years refining its design with support from various Swedish research institutions.
The prototype, named Wing 560, stands 40 meters tall and is made from a high-strength steel core with an aerodynamic surface crafted from 370,000 recycled plastic bottles. During the launch, interim CEO Magnus MackAldener emphasized the potential for wind propulsion to become a major industry in Sweden, combining engineering and sustainability.
Extensive testing, including wind tunnel and open-water assessments, indicates that a single wing can cut fuel consumption and emissions by 10%. With a full installation, emissions could potentially drop by up to 90%. The next phase involves assembling a second wing sail to be fitted on the Wallenius Wilhelmsen vessel Tirranna, set for testing in early 2026. Interest in wind-assisted propulsion is growing, with various concepts being adopted by commercial vessels, confirming expected fuel savings across the industry.
