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Blowing in the Wind: Given my fondness for (1) ships, and (2) wind power, this is the coolest thing I’ve seen in a long time.

A German company is introducing sails it says may help propel ships across the sea cheaper and faster than modern engines.

[…] SkySails’ system consists of an enormous towing kite and navigation software that can map the best route between two points for maximum wind efficiency. […] SkySails claims it will save one third of fuel costs.

Not just theory — they’ve sold their first one. Via Slashdot.

Comments

If you’re interested, this BBC radio program on the topic was very good (Real Audio recording of the program available via the description page): http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/science/costingtheearth_20051124.shtml .

Tim Small | July 9, 2006 4:17 AM

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