Introduction
Takeda and VELA Transport have announced a partnership to use VELA's wind-powered trimaran for shipping pharmaceutical products between Europe and the U.S., marking a shift towards sustainable shipping in the pharma industry.
Environmental Impact
The trimaran, powered entirely by wind at sea, aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 99% compared to air freight and up to 90% compared to container ships. The remaining emissions are from minimal engine use for harbor maneuvering.
Technological Features
VELA's trimaran is equipped with CoolSafe, a Good Distribution Practice compliant refrigeration system powered by renewable energy, ensuring cold-chain integrity and product safety. The design eliminates the need for water ballasts, reducing the risk of transferring invasive species.
Operational Goals
VELA plans to achieve transatlantic delivery times under 15 days, faster than traditional containerized sea cargo, by leveraging offshore racing technologies and efficient port operations. The company aims to expand its fleet to five trimarans by 2028, with a capacity to transport up to 48,000 tons of goods annually.
