HANSA DREJOE is the first of four Leonhardt & Blumberg newbuilds to receive Econowind VentoFoil wind-assisted propulsion technology
German shipowner Leonhardt & Blumberg has installed Econowind VentoFoils on its general cargo vessel HANSA DREJOE, marking the first deployment of the wind propulsion technology across a programme of four newbuild vessels.
The installation was completed at Royal Niestern Sander Shipyard in the Netherlands in early August, with sister vessel HANSA CHRISTIANSOE now at the yard for its own VentoFoil installation.
Econowind’s calculations indicate that the VentoFoils will provide around 10% additional thrust, with a corresponding reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
“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.
