Steampunk Tech: Using Kites to Pull Ocean Ships
This is so steampunk! Responding to tripled fuel costs for ocean shipping in recent years, two German shipping companies are using high-tech kites to pull their ships across the ocean. Owners expect a 20% reduction in fuel costs. Not only will this save them approximately $1,600 per day, but think of the reduced ocean pollution.
This variation on sails is very interesting and innovative. Look at a modern ship and you don’t see room for sails, but the kites are lifted high above the ship’s deck. When sent aloft they go higher than ordinary sails and catch stronger winds. Very, Very Smart!
Here’s the Reuters News Video:
Thanks to PredictWind.com for the heads up.
