Zeewolde, the Netherlands – 12 August 2026 – German shipowner Leonhardt & Blumberg has equipped HANSA DREJOE with Econowind VentoFoils. The vessel is the first of four general cargo newbuilds to receive wind propulsion technology. This reflects Leonhardt & Blumberg’s practical approach to reducing fuel consumption and emissions while gaining experience with wind-assisted ship propulsion.
The first installation was completed on HANSA DREJOE at Royal Niestern Sander Shipyard in early August, with HANSA CHRISTIANSOE currently at the yard. Econowind calculated that the VentoFoils will deliver around 10 percent additional thrust, reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions accordingly. The assessment uses the vessels’ actual trading routes throughout the year.
“We see wind-assisted ship propulsion as a logical next step in our journey toward greener operations,” said Christoph Meier, Naval Architect at Leonhardt & Blumberg. “Of course, the business case is important, but we also feel a responsibility to move the industry forward. Econowind’s practical and well-developed technology allows us to do both, while gaining real operational experience along the way.”
The four vessels were designed by Groot Ship Design. Two were delivered in the first half of 2025, while the other two are currently under construction in China. The GROOT XL-type vessels have all been designed for easy integration of wind-assisted ship propulsion from the outset, ensuring optimal placement and seamless installation. The two vessels under construction in China are expected to arrive in Europe in the first half of 2027 for final outfitting and commissioning.
“Our goal with VentoFoils is simple: to deliver measurable fuel savings with a clear business case,” said Stijn Engelage, Sales Manager at Econowind. “Leonhardt & Blumberg’s choice reflects their focus on proven technology and tangible results at sea. The systems will make a visible and immediate contribution to efficiency.”
By combining conventional propulsion with modern wind propulsion technology, Leonhardt & Blumberg continues its long-term strategy to improve efficiency across its fleet. The installation of VentoFoils forms part of a broader program to explore complementary technologies that deliver measurable impact, both operationally and environmentally.
VentoFoils are compact, autonomous wing systems that can be tilted in seconds. The units use boundary layer suction, creating additional thrust and optimizing aerodynamic efficiency. The technology has been deployed on a range of vessel types, from general cargo and tankers to heavy-lift and multipurpose ships.
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Note for editors (not for publication) – For more information visit econowind.nl
For further questions, please feel free to contact:
- Stijn Engelage, Econowind, sales@econowind.nl
- Ben Aschenbrenner, Leonhardt & Blumberg, Aschenbrenner@leonhardt-blumberg.com
About Econowind
Econowind develops and builds wind-assisted ship propulsion systems that help the shipping industry reduce fuel use and emissions. Its patented VentoFoil technology uses suction-based airflow control to deliver scalable, cost-effective energy savings. With more than 150 units sold, the company is contributing to a practical and profitable path toward maritime decarbonization.
About Leonhardt & Blumberg
Founded in 1903, Leonhardt & Blumberg today steers with its experienced and well-attuned team a fleet of 21 handy sized container ships, five product tankers and two multipurpose vessels. The fleet is set to expand further with eight product tankers and four multipurpose newbuildings scheduled for delivery in the next years. The company is involved in all steps of shipping: Building, Finance, Nautic-Technical Ship Management and Crewing.
About Groot Ship Design
Groot Ship Design is the specialist design house for sea-going cargo vessels upto handy size. In
particular shortsea, multipurpose, project cargo and dry cargo / bulk vessels are the specialty of
Groot Ship Design. The company serves many shipowners from all over Europe and cooperates with
shipyards not only in the Netherlands but also in the Far East.
About Niestern Sander
Niestern Sander Repair is a versatile ship repair and maintenance specialist, offering a broad range of services including repairs, conversions, and special surveys. These activities are carried out in two dry docks as well as on a slipway, allowing the company to handle a wide variety of vessel types and projects efficiently. With its extensive technical expertise, Niestern Sander Repair is a reliable partner for maritime projects, including the installation of innovative solutions such as Econowind VentoFoils.
