Beluga freighter pulled by a kite

Beluga SkySails, a ship that is the result of a cooperative effort between two German companies, embarked on its maiden voyage today. During its journey to Venezuala, the 10,000 ton ship will be partly powered by a giant sail that rises up to 300 meters, where there are stronger winds. The computer

guided kite will allow the ship to reduce its daily fuel consumption by up to 20 percent, thus reducing emissions.

The success of the sail could spark a sail power renaissance, especially now that shipping companies are being hit hard in the pocket by rising oil prices. Two more Belugas are expected to launch in 2009 and Beluga hopes to equip another 1500 ships by 2015.

[via Reuters]