Conceived and developed at Michelin’s research center in Givisiez (canton of Fribourg), the WISAMO sail is a telescopic, inflatable, and fully automated sailing system designed to enhance shipping efficiency while minimizing resource consumption. The idea germinated during the 2021 Movin’On World Summit for Sustainable Mobility, reflecting Michelin’s commitment to promoting more sustainable transportation alternatives.
The WISAMO sail was initially tested on Lake Neuchâtel before being equipped on a ship owned by Brittany Ferries. The ship has already undertaken numerous successful test voyages. Nonetheless, the Michelin team in Givisiez isn’t resting on their laurels. They are actively developing an upgraded prototype with a larger sail – increasing from the current 13 meters to approximately 60 meters. This expanded version, expected to launch in 2026-2027, could potentially reduce ship fuel consumption by an impressive 10-20%.
A transformative leap towards sustainable maritime transport
In a significant recognition of WISAMO’s contribution to sustainable development, the project was awarded the “Solar Impulse Efficient Solution” label in July 2023. This prestigious label, awarded by the Solar Impulse Foundation, is conferred upon projects that effectively combine environmental protection and financial profitability. With more than 1,000 such projects worldwide, the WISAMO sail now stands as an embodiment of a vision committed to a more sustainable world.
By demonstrating its commitment to carbon-free shipping, Michelin is not only paving the way for innovative wind propulsion solutions but also reinforcing Western Switzerland’s reputation as a hub for sustainable technology development. The WISAMO sail is a testament to Michelin’s ethos of marrying economic growth and environmental conservation. The successful implementation of this technology will mark not only a significant stride for Michelin but also a critical milestone in the larger narrative of sustainable maritime transport.
