Stena Line has revealed a new concept vessel Stena Futuro, which can allegedly reduce energy usage by 20 percent or more.
According to the company, the Stena Futuro is a 240-meter-long RoRo vessel designed for transporting semi-trailers and cars. It aims to reduce energy usage by 20 percent or more and is part of Stena Line’s broader goal to reduce CO₂ emissions by 30 percent by 2030.
The developed concept for Stena Futuro also includes four 40-meter-tall wing sails, which can be retracted when needed — for example, when passing under a bridge.
Recently, Stena’s developers, together with the Swedish research institute RISE, have conducted tests and simulations of the sails’ usage to document both energy savings and how the sails affect the ship’s maneuverability and safety.
Key features of the Stena Futuro include:
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Optimized hull and superstructure for efficient use of cargo space
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Lightweight design and enhanced hydro- and aerodynamics to reduce fuel consumption
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Hybrid propulsion system with batteries and engines that can operate on multiple fuels
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Ability to operate on electricity alone when entering or leaving ports
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Solar panels to support the vessel’s electricity needs
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Air lubrication system to reduce friction between the vessel and water
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Waste heat recovery system to repurpose exhaust gases for heating and electric power generation.
The mission is to develop the most efficient and competitive vessel possible for a specific cargo capacity, using today’s available technology. The goal is for the vessel to have the lowest fuel consumption on the market,
… said Nicolas Bathfield, Project Manager at Stena Teknik, who has been involved in developing the concept.
