Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and MOL Drybulk Ltd. announced plans to install wind propulsion systems, including Wind Challenger, on seven new bulk carriers and multi-purpose vessels. The Wind Challenger has shown up to 17% daily fuel reduction on the Shofu Maru.

MOL aims to have nine Wind Challenger-equipped vessels, totaling eleven vessels with wind propulsion systems. Contracts are signed for three bulk carriers with Oshima Shipbuilding, with plans for three more.

Additionally, MOL Drybulk will install two Ventfoils on a new multipurpose vessel by 2025. MOL’s "Environmental Vision 2.2" targets net zero GHG emissions by 2050, planning 25 Wind Challenger vessels by 2030 and 80 by 2035.

MOL aims to reduce GHG emissions and decarbonize society with its eco-friendly fleet.

Ship type	No. of vessels	Wind-assisted propulsion system to be installed	GHG reduction rate (annual average)	Status	Scheduled delivery
Bulk carrier	3	1 Wind Challenger per vessel (+ installation of multiple rotor sails is under consideration)	About 7%-16%/vessel depending on route, conditions, etc. (about 15%-28% when 3 rotor sails are used together)	April 5, 2024 Construction contract has been signed	2nd half of 2026 - 1st half of 2027
Bulk carrier	3	1 Wind Challenger per vessel	About 7%-16%/vessel depending on routes, conditions, etc.	Construction contract negotiations underway	2027 - 2028
Multi-purpose vessel	1	2 Ventfoils per vessel	About 2% per vessel	October 2024 Charter contract to be signed	January 2025

**The Rotor Sail uses wind blowing into a rotating cylinder to create thrust at right angles to the wind direction, allowing the vessel to be propelled by winds from any direction by changing the rotor's rotation.