Gothenburg, Sweeden – Cutting-edge tests are underway for the world’s first wind-powered Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC). Wallenius Marine, in collaboration with Volvo and RISE Maritime Department, is putting the ship design to the test in one of the most advanced wind tunnels out there, at the Volvo HQ.
A Unique Testing Approach
The tests feature a 5 x 2-meter model, weighing 1.2 tons, that combines the ship’s hull with six high-tech wing sails. Unlike traditional tests where wing sails were examined in isolation, this full-system testing captures the real-world interplay between the hull and the wings.
“We’re at a pivotal stage where confirming our design’s technical and operational robustness is essential before finalizing the tender,” explains Carl Fagergren, Senior Project Manager at Wallenius Marine.
Also present in Gothenburg are representatives from KTH, RISE and Oceanbird, who contribute expertise and technical knowledge to the project.
The wind tunnel, operated by Volvo—a key Orcelle Horizon partner—offers wind speeds of up to 250 km/h, creating optimal conditions for studying aerodynamic performance.
What’s Being Tested?
The tests are aimed to analyze several critical areas, including:
- Hull-Wing Interaction: Identifying optimal distances and angles for peak aerodynamic efficiency.
- Command Bridge Design: Testing three configurations to determine their impact on performance.
- Resilience in Off-Design Scenarios: Understanding how incorrect wing positioning affects operations.
These tests will also produce valuable data for refining wing control systems and simulation models, setting a new benchmark for wind-powered vessel design.
Paving the Way for Greener Shipping
The insights from these trials will guide the final tender design and support the Orcelle project’s broader goal of scaling wind propulsion across the maritime industry. By harnessing wind power, Wallenius Marine and its partners aim to significantly reduce emissions and create a blueprint for the future of shipping.
