03/11/2026
A centuries-old concept brought to life with the latest sailing technology! Alewijnse has signed a contract with the French shipbuilder PIRIOU to deliver the electrical system integration on board four new sail cargo vessels with hybrid propulsion.
The vessels belong to the Phenix class, developed by shipping company TransOceanic Wind Transport (NEWTOWT). Earlier, Piriou and Alewijnse completed similar projects for the first two vessels, Anemos and Artemis, which were built in Romania and France; and Vietnam respectively.
Together with the new vessels these are currently the largest sailing cargo ships in operation that utilises automated soft-rigging sails derived directly from ocean racing technology.
The 80.36-metre-long Phenix-class employs a hybrid electric sailing technique. The vessels operate on a wind-first philosophy, meaning they are primarily propelled by sails. Electrical energy is only used when manoeuvring in and out of harbours and as auxiliary power in low-wind conditions. Fossil fuel is reserved solely as an emergency backup when the electrical energy supply is exhausted. Together these systems reduce CO₂ emissions by as much as 90 percent.
Julien Florance, Head of Strategic Procurement at Piriou Ingénierie states: "We have come to know and work closely with Alewijnse, and after several years of collaboration we particularly value their professionalism and pragmatic approach."
Dumitru POPERESNIUC, Sales Manager International at Alewijnse, adds: “We thank Piriou for their trust and confidence as we continue to build sustainable partnerships founded on mutual respect."
👉 Read the full press release on our website: https://www.alewijnse.com/news/alewijnse-signs-contract-piriou-four-additional-vessels-worlds-largest-fleet-sailing-cargo