MUSCAT: Asyad Group has introduced the Sohar Max, a pioneering cargo ship that harnesses wind power to enhance environmental performance in maritime transport. This 400,000-tonne vessel is equipped with five massive rotor sails, each standing 35 meters tall and five meters wide, developed in collaboration with Vale and Anemoi Marine Technologies.
The innovative sails utilise the Magnus effect—a physics principle that leverages rotating cylinders to generate lift from wind—to reduce fuel consumption by 6% and cut carbon emissions by up to 3,000 tonnes annually per vessel.
Anemoi’s advanced folding system allows the sails to retract horizontally, enabling smoother navigation during port operations and under low-clearance structures, without compromising cargo handling or vessel performance.
Dr Ibrahim bin Bakhit al Nadhairi, CEO of Asyad Shipping, said Sohar Max represents a transformative step toward net-zero emissions by 2050. “Air propulsion technology opens new horizons for sustainable shipping, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility,” he stated.
Nasser bin Sulaiman al Azri, Vale Oman CEO, described the initiative as a milestone in the partnership with Asyad. “This achievement reflects our shared commitment to building greener logistics solutions and reducing the environmental footprint of the global supply chain,” he said.
The launch reinforces Asyad Group’s ambition to lead the maritime industry’s shift toward cleaner, more efficient propulsion systems and sustainability-driven operations. — ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
