Belgian shipowner Zulu Associates has unveiled a concept design for a 200 teu autonomous, electric short sea container vessel featuring wind blades, designed for voyages around the English Channel.
The design has been worked on in partnership with Dutch naval architect Conoship International and could also feature wave foil propulsion.
“This is an exciting time for short sea shipbuilding. Traditional concepts are being challenged to drive change and enable new zero emission shipping possibilities,” commented Zulu Associates CEO Antoon Van Coillie.
Designers are also developing modular energy containers for the concept ship using batteries and/or hydrogen based power systems to provide the prime energy source.
