Lomarlabs partners with CargoKite to develop wind-powered micro ships

Lomarlabs, a unit of UK-based shipping firm Lomar Shipping, has partnered with German maritime tech start-up CargoKite to develop micro ships using large kite systems as the main method of propulsion.

PHOTO: CargoKite's large kite system concept. CargoKite

Micro ships are small vessels, often unmanned and autonomous, designed for maritime tasks like surveillance, data collection, and exploration in constrained or hazardous environments, such as pipelines or narrow waterways.

CargoKite's system uses kites tethered to vessels to harness high-altitude offshore winds. This method converts wind energy into electricity more efficiently than traditional turbines, utilising the strong winds available for most of the year.

These vessels will primarily use large kite systems for propulsion and AI for autonomous operation, Lomarlabs says.

CargoKite's recent prototype demonstrates its technology in real-world conditions. In 2023, it developed a proof-of-concept with a nine-meter catamaran using a kite system and hydrofoils. CargoKite is now designing its full-size vessel and constructing a demonstrator prototype.

By Tuhin Roy

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online