Transforming international cargo transportation for a greener future has led VELA, a pioneering French company, to address the challenge around climate change by innovating and pushing for a 100% wind-powered maritime transport. The company recently reported a significant funding round of EUR 40 million ($43 million USD), led by Crédit Mutuel Impact, 11th Hour Racing, and BPI - French Public Investment Bank.

 
Assisted by BRS Shipbrokers, VELA selected the Australian shipyard Austal to help build its winder powered cargo carrying trimaran. The vessel will be constructed by Austal in the Philippines and is scheduled to be delivered in 2H2026.

 
The aim of this newbuilding vessel is to provide reliability and sustainability standards for transatlantic shipping. To explore new routes to lower emissions while the maritime industry sails towards the direction of decarbonisation.

 
 
**VESSEL CHARACTERISTICS**

Length: 220 feet

Height: 200 feet

Width: 82 feet

Hull material: Aluminium  

Mast Material: Carbon

UMS: >1500

Renewable energies: Over 3,230 sq ft of photovoltaic panels and two hydro-generators

Sailing Propulsion Design: MerConcept

Naval Architect: VPLP

VELA to build a sustainable sailing cargo trimaran