Following the launch of the new 20m and 24m WindWings, BAR Technologies and CM Energy Tech Co (CMET) have entered into an collaboration agreement to begin production of these models, responding to the surge in market demand from shipowners and operators of Handymax bulkers, chemical tankers, and general cargo vessels.
Building on the demand BAR Technologies is seeing for the existing 37.5m WindWings, the introduction of the new models aims to make wind-assisted propulsion accessible to a broader range of vessel types, supporting the industry’s drive towards greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The new models are projected to deliver up to 0.7t of fuel savings per WindWing per day on average on worldwide routes, contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.
With tightening regulations under FuelEU Maritime and the IMO 2030 emissions targets, shipowners are actively seeking solutions that can be retrofitted to deliver significant efficiency gains without requiring a shift to costly alternative fuels or major fleet overhauls. The new WindWings models are specifically designed for mid-sized vessels and provide a practical and commercially viable path to emissions reductions.
John Cooper, BAR Technologies CEO, said: “One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen is that stakeholders now trust the physics behind our three-element wing design, which DNV Maritime has rigorously validated. By formalising our partnership with CMET , we are ensuring that shipowners have access to scalable wind propulsion technology that is both commercially and operationally viable. The interest we have seen from the market reflects a clear demand for proven solutions that reduce fuel consumption and emissions in a cost-effective manner.”
Huafeng Zhan, Executive President CMET, added: “The demand for WindWings highlights the urgent need for sustainable, efficient solutions in shipping. CMET is proud to partner with BAR Technologies in expanding marketing and production, bringing this innovative technology to a broader segment of the market. This collaboration strengthens our shared commitment to maritime decarbonisation and delivering practical solutions for shipowners navigating new regulatory pressures.”
The expansion of marketing and production with CMET strengthens BAR Technologies’ ability to meet increasing demand. Designed with durability in mind, WindWings® incorporate a fail-safe self-feathering system capable of handling extreme conditions, including winds of up to 100 knots.
Cooper said: “BAR Technologies’ innovative technology, combined with CMET’s advanced manufacturing expertise, allows us to efficiently scale production and deliver this pioneering solution to a wider market. This partnership is built on a shared vision: accelerating maritime decarbonisation and providing shipowners with practical, future-ready solutions as they navigate evolving regulatory landscapes.”
BAR Technologies says its WindWings’ patented three-element wing design generates 2.5 times the lift of traditional single-element wings, and operate without continuous spinning or suction fans, resulting in minimal power consumption. The fully adjustable camber and angle of attack enables automatic optimisation for maximum efficiency across varying wind speeds and directions. All WindWings models are designed for both newbuilds and retrofits, requiring minimal external power and eliminating the need for constant energy consumption.
Image: Agreement between BAR Technologies and CMET (source: BAR Technologies)
