Freight News, Logistics, Sea

Leonhardt & Blumberg Begins VentoFoil Program

[ August 13, 2026   //   Gary Burrows ]

Leonhardt & Blumberg has installed wind-assisted propulsion on the first of four general cargo vessels in a program expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Two Econowind VentoFoils were installed aboard Hansa Drejoe at Royal Niestern Sander Shipyard in the Netherlands during early August. Sister vessel Hansa Christiansoe is now at the yard for installation.

Econowind estimates that the systems will provide approximately 10 percent additional thrust, reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions accordingly. The calculation is based on the vessels’ actual year-round trading routes.

“We see wind-assisted ship propulsion as a logical next step in our journey toward greener operations,” Leonhardt & Blumberg Naval Architect Christoph Meier said. “Of course, the business case is important, but we also feel a responsibility to move the industry forward.”

The four Groot XL-type vessels were designed by Groot Ship Design with provisions for wind-assisted propulsion, allowing the VentoFoils to be installed in predetermined positions.

Two of the ships were delivered during the first half of 2025. The remaining two are under construction in China and are expected to arrive in Europe during the first half of 2027 for final outfitting and commissioning.

VentoFoils are autonomous wing systems that use boundary-layer suction to increase aerodynamic efficiency and generate additional thrust. The units can be tilted when necessary to reduce their effect on cargo handling and vessel operations.

Leonhardt & Blumberg said the installations are part of a broader program examining complementary technologies that could improve the operational and environmental efficiency of its fleet.

The Hamburg-based company manages 21 handysize container ships, five product tankers and two multipurpose vessels. Its orderbook includes eight product tankers and the four multipurpose vessels covered by the VentoFoil program.

Tags: Groot Ship Design, Leonhardt & Blumberg