Michelin signs first contract for its revolutionary sailboat

Michelin takes a significant step forward in the development of its sail-powered WISAMO wing.

This surprising innovation from Michelin is an innovative solution to address the decarbonization challenges of maritime transport. In collaboration with Socarenam and naval architecture firm Mauric, Michelin has won a tender from DGAMPA to equip a high-seas patrol vessel with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system combined with sail assistance.

This next-generation patrol vessel will replace the Iris, which was designed nearly forty years ago. The design, construction, and equipment of this ship will be carried out through a 100% French collaboration. The WISAMO wing, covering an area of 170 m², will reduce fuel consumption by an estimated 15%, thanks to its optimized design and adapted operational profile. Michelin will support the project from its conception in 2025 through to installation and sea trials scheduled for the end of 2027.

A Logic of Hybridization

The WISAMO wing is an innovative and adaptive solution. It consists of a telescopic, self-supporting, and retractable mast, a light fabric envelope inflated at low pressure, and an automated control system. This device, designed to minimize integration constraints, is compatible with any vessel longer than 15 to 20 meters. It can be used as the main propulsion or as a supplement to traditional engines, thereby reducing the carbon footprint of maritime transport.

The future patrol vessel will mainly operate in the French exclusive economic zone, carrying out various missions such as maritime surveillance, fishing control, pollution fighting, and rescue operations. Based in La Rochelle, it will notably operate in the Bay of Biscay, an area where the WISAMO system has already been successfully tested in 2023.

Michelin may not be expected to be at the forefront on the oceans, but the technical expertise of the French company transcends borders. Capable of innovation far beyond terrestrial, aerial, or maritime networks, Michelin continues to push boundaries. Next stop, the Moon?

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