The Power Of Wind: Interview With Bound4blue Founder

Published

3 years ago

August 20, 2021

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Shipowners and operators may be able to decrease their fuel-related costs and pollutant emissions up to 30%, thanks to a new system created by Bound4blue. The Spanish company aims at delivering automated wind-assisted propulsion systems (also called wingsails) that can be integrated onto a wide range of vessels. The Beam spoke with one of the founders, José Miguel Bermúdez.

Who are the people behind Bound4blue?

The project was founded by Cristina Aleixendri, David Ferrer, and me, José Miguel Bermúdez. The three of us are aeronautical engineers, which clearly served as the foundation of the technology developed. We found soft sails installed in sailing boats or yachts, but none in commercial vessels. We believed we could apply our knowledge in aeronautics to build a high-lift device for the shipping industry adapted to its requirements, that could be the solution to the two showstopper challenges they are facing: high fuel operating expenses and emissions reduction pressure from international entities.

We have been selected as one of Europe’s most promising innovators under 35 by MIT and featured amongst the 30 brightest industry European entrepreneurs under the age of 30 by Forbes. The design, manufacture, and launch of scientific capsules to the space, the construction of efficient wind towers, or the deployment of Geodetic Quality Sea-Ice drift buoys in the Arctic are some examples that precede our team and that mark a business and technological trajectory for Bound4blue.

The team is nowadays formed by 15 people, who combine several expertise in different fields of business and engineering, including aerospace engineering, naval architects, electronics engineering, statisticians and mechanical engineering.

How exactly do the automated wind assisted propulsion systems work? Can we talk about renewable energy in this case?

Bound4blue’s wingsail system generates effective thrust from wind power and thereby reduces the engine power required, saving fuel and pollutant emissions. For example, one of the latest cases we are working on is a Handysize (183-meter length) vessel, operating in the route Busan (South Korea) – Seattle (US). In this case, installing two 30-meter units of our system, we can save more than 940 tons of fuel per year, which represents more than 2,900 tons of CO2 savings per year, with an investment payback period of less than three years. Having successfully passed all the tests in the prototyping phase and being within the pilot phase, our systems are now being implemented on four ships.

So to sum up, of course we can talk about renewable energy in this case. The only source we are using in the overall process is the wind power, which is directly used to propel the ships with no intermediate energy conversion. In the end and from a conceptual point of view, it is the same process that humanity has been using for thousands of years, using the wind to navigate.

Image courtesy Bound4blue

What makes this technology innovative?

Bound4blue’s innovative technology is a creative application of an already existing one. Wind was once used centuries ago to propel vessels, so it is as simple as going back to the basics but using 21st century aeronautical technology. The solution was inside the industry from the very beginning, but we were able to take our aeronautical knowledge and build it on top of an ancient concept to create Bound4blue’s solution. The challenge we had to deal with was adapting this technology to commercial vessels and finding solutions to problems that are specific to those vessels.

Our technology is capable of providing double-digit fuel savings and emissions reduction with a payback below five years, it can be folded (useful for fleets with air-draft or operations limitations), it has extended operability thanks to the rotation capability and it works with a simple and fully autonomous operation, so no extra training or workload from the crew is required.

What can its impact on the shipping sector be? How can it help reduce emissions in the long term?

Maritime transport is a key industry for our society, transporting over 80% of the worldwide cargo. However, its pollutant emissions are a major environmental challenge. Maritime transport accounts for 3% of the global CO2 emissions, 15% of NO worldwide emissions and 13% of SO2 global emissions; it is having a direct impact on our planet in forms of global warming or acid rain, and being responsible of 14 million cases of childhood asthma each year and 60,000 cardiopulmonary and lung cancer deaths annually. In fact, maritime transport generates as much CO2 as the sixth most polluting country in the world, and the 16 largest vessels in the world generate the same amount of Sulphur emissions as the entire global fleet of cars.

Our technology reduces the emissions produced in the maritime transport of cargo and people by decreasing the use of fossil fuel with the same level of energy used by the ship. According to the Impact Forecast Analysis we carried out using the Climate Impact Forecast tool, more than 590 thousand tons of CO2 emissions will be saved in the following five years due to Bound4blue’s forecasted installations. So our technology will be a massive emission saver in the upcoming years. Also, our solution provides huge opportunities to modernize the infrastructure which will create new jobs and promote greater prosperity across the globe.

What kind of setbacks have you encountered, and what kind of support helped you get through? Where will future endeavors bring you?

As with any product development, there is a risk of obtaining lower performances and not achieving the desired economic viability for the market. The technological and practical feasibility have been proven so far by our land prototypes and the demo is being run for merchant and fishing vessels.

Bound4blue’s solution is highly capital intensive, but we have already succeeded in raising over €5.8 million contribution from private investors and grants. In this type of venture, there is always a risk of slow market acceptance and adoption, but interest in the product has already been proven. Bound4blue has received funding from the European Regional Development Fund throughout several projects granted by the Government of Catalonia and the Government of Cantabria, as well as from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) throughout two projects which are being developed right now together with other European companies. Moreover, Bound4blue received funding from EIT Climate KIC and presently financial support throughout the extraordinary COVID-19 venture support call. EIT Climate KIC has supported us with financing, mentoring, training and access to a global network of investors, as well as increasing our media exposure. They have helped us translate our business model into more transactions with customers that are validating our core value proposition, as well as enabled us to attract more capital to progress into the next stage in the business development.

Bound4blue is now at a pre-commercial stage. The next step is to implement a worldwide industrial network (shipyards, systems manufacturing and assembly), as well as to grow the team in the business development and commercial departments to expand operations and boost sales in Europe and Asia. Moreover, we will undergo incremental development to decrease costs while increasing efficiency and security.

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Environment

Toyota to buy clean power from a $1.1 billion solar farm in Texas

Published

16 hours ago

November 1, 2024

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Toyota to buy clean power from a .1 billion solar farm in Texas

solar farm — https://unsplash.com/photos/solar-panels-on-green-field-513dBrMJ_5w

Enbridge, a Canadian energy company, just announced it’s moving forward with an 815-megawatt (MW) solar project called Sequoia in Texas. When it’s done, it’ll be one of the largest solar farms in North America. The project’s price tag is a hefty $1.1 billion.

Enbridge’s Sequoia, around 150 miles west of Dallas, has already landed long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with AT&T and Toyota, ensuring most of its output is sold for years to come. This deal was highlighted in Enbridge’s third-quarter report on Friday.

Sequoia will be built in two phases, with power expected to start flowing in 2025 and 2026. Enbridge says it’s taken steps to reduce risks by securing equipment and procurement contracts in advance. Permits and purchase orders are also locked down.

Toyota’s PPA with Enbridge’s Texas solar project is part of Toyota’s broader push toward sustainability, as the automaker aims to achieve net zero by 2035 and match 45% of its purchased power with renewable electricity by 2026 as it still clings to its “diverse powertrain strategy.”

If you live in an area that has frequent natural disaster events, and are interested in making your home more resilient to power outages, consider going solar and adding a battery storage system. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.

Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisers to help you every step of the way. Get started here. –trusted affiliate link*

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Environment

NIO’s EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise

Published

17 hours ago

November 1, 2024

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NIO's EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise

With its new electric SUV rolling out, NIO’s (NIO) sales topped the 20,000 mark again in Oct, its sixth straight month hitting the milestone.

NIO sold 20,976 vehicles last month, up 30.5% from October 2023. The NIO brand sold 16,657 vehicles, while its new “family-oriented smart vehicle brand,” Onvo, contributed 4,319 in its first full sales month.

After launching its new mid-size Onvo L60 electric SUV in September, NIO said production and deliveries are steadily ramping up.

At the end of October, NIO’s Onvo had 166 Centers and Spaces throughout 60 cities. Onvo plans to continue expanding its network to drive future growth.

NIO’s new electric SUV starts at around $21,200 (149,900) and is a direct rival to Tesla’s Model Y. The base $21K model is if you rent the battery. Even with the battery included, Onvo L60 prices still start at under $30,000 (206,900 yuan), with a CLTC range of up to 341 miles (555 km). That’s still less than the Model Y.

Tesla’s Model Y RWD starts at around $35,000 (249,900 yuan) with 344 mi (554 km) CLTC range in China.

NIO’s new Onvo brand drives higher Oct sales

NIO has often compared its new electric SUV to the Model Y, claiming it’s superior in many ways. The L60 has better consumption at 12.1 kWh/100km compared to the Model Y at 12.5 kWh/100km).

With a longer wheelbase (2,950 mm vs 2,890 mm), NIO’s electric SUV also provides slightly more interior space.

Despite the L60’s success so far, NIO believes its second Onvo model will be an even bigger hit. It could be a potential game-changer.

“If you think the L60 is good, then this new model is a much more competitive product,” NIO’s CEO William Li told CnEVPost after launching the L60. Onvo will launch a new EV every year. Following the L60, Onvo will launch a new mid-to-large-size electric SUV next year.

NIO’s leader claims the new model will be revolutionary. According to Li, it will offer even more surprises than the L60. Deliveries are planned to begin in Q3 2025.

NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y trims	Range (CLTC)	Starting Price
NIO Onvo L60 (Battery rental)	555 km (341 mi) 730 km (454 mi)	149,900 yuan ($21,200)
NIO Onvo L60 (60 kWh)	555 km (341 mi)	206,900 yuan ($29,300)
NIO Onvo L60 (85 kWh)	730 km (454 mi)	235,900 yuan ($33,400)
NIO Onvo L60 (150 kWh)	+1,000 km (+621 mi)	TBD
Tesla Model Y RWD	554 km (344 mi)	249,900 yuan ($34,600)
Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range	688 km (427 mi)	290,900 yuan ($40,300)
Tesla Model Y AWD Performance	615 km (382 mi)	354,900 yuan ($49,100)

NIO Onvo L60 compared to Tesla Model Y prices and range in China

Local reports suggest a six-or seven-seat electric SUV could hit the market even sooner. With rumors of a launch around Q1 2025, deliveries could happen as soon as May 2025.

According to sources close to the matter, the L60 is just a “stepping stone” with even more exciting EVs on the way. The source claimed the new six-seat option will start at around $42,100 (300,000 yuan).

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Environment

Velotric Ebikes’ big early-bird Black Friday discounts are here!

Published

17 hours ago

November 1, 2024

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Velotric Ebikes' big early-bird Black Friday discounts are here!

Velotric Ebikes are designed by some of the most brilliant minds in the business. And now, you have the opportunity to own one (or two!) of these high-performance, elegant, reliable rides. You won’t want to miss these fantastic early-bird Black Friday deals running from November 1-14, and, also get a sneak peek at special offers that start on November 8.

Read on to find the right model for you and learn how you can donate $5 to get up to $550 off a superb Velotric electric bike.

Velotric Black Friday deals – give to get back

If you donate $5 to either the Clean Air Task Force or the Solutions Project at checkout, you’ll unlock some fantastic discounts off Velotric e-bikes:

Clean Air Task Force: Fighting air pollution for healthier communities
The Solutions Project: Advocating for 100% renewable energy in frontline communities

Plus, Velotric is giving Electrek readers an exclusive discount: Enter the code Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!

Velotric Discover 2 Ebike

The Velotric Discover 2, Velotric’s most comfortable e-bike, now has even more power, with a 750W high-performance motor and 75 Nm of torque. The 48V 706 Wh battery, providing up to 75 miles per charge, maximizes your range.

You can ride in comfort, as the frame design supports an upright posture; plus, it’s got a 200mm wide saddle and ergonomic grips, reducing long-ride strain. Enjoy a premium, versatile ride that turns every journey into a joyride.

Discover 2 – Save up to $200

Velotric Summit 1 Ebike

If you want both an everyday bike and a trekking bike, then this is the one for you. The customizable Velotric Summit 1 Ebike is a hybrid e-bike featuring a 750W motor with 90 Nm of torque that delivers exceptional power for both city streets and offroad terrain, and the intuitive throttle means you can access that power effortlessly. When you’re off-road, the 120mm travel suspension absorbs the impacts, resulting in a smoother ride. The 48V, 705.6Wh battery provides up to 70 miles of charge.

Plus, it features a vibrant multifunctional screen with three configurations and use the Velotric app to monitor mileage and access real-time bike data.

Summit 1 – Save up to $200

Velotric Nomad 1 Plus Ebike

The Nomad 1 Plus Ebike‘s 750W motor and 75 Nm torque allow you to conquer just about any terrain. The 691Wh battery keeps you on the move for up to 55 miles, an 80mm suspension fork smooths your ride, and powerful waterproof hydraulic brakes give you full control.

The Nomad 1 Plus features an adjustable stem, a brighter front light, and max speed adjustable range is 12-28 mph.

Nomad 1 Plus – save up to $550

Velotric Fold 1 Ebike

The Velotric Fold 1 Ebike becomes compact in just three quick moves, but don’t mistake it for simple. The high-performance 750W motor and generates 70 Nm torque, beating most of the competition for acceleration and climbing ability. The 608Wh battery will give you up to 55 miles of range, its step-through design is 20% lower than the competition, and when you’re done zipping around town or commuting, you can pop it into a car trunk or even a closet.

Plus, the Fold 1 is compatible with a wide range of cool accessories so you can customize it to meet your needs.

Fold 1 – Save up to $350

Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike

The Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike is an ultra-compact, 39-pound city-and-gravel bike that’s designed for riders with an active lifestyle. But don’t be fooled by its sleek look because it’s very well-equipped: The five pedal-assist-level T1 ST has a 70-mile range and three riding modes, and the peak 600W motor generates 40Nm of torque. It also comes with Apple Find My integration.

T1 ST Plus – Save up to $400

Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike

The Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike is a fantastic commuter bike that’s designed for comfort. (Plus, it’s kinda fun that it comes in five color choices.) If your commuting route is a bit more challenging, then the Discover 1 Plus might be the right fit for you. It features a rear light with braking high-beam, a 60 Lux front light, and double hydraulic disc brakes for extra safety. Plus, Velotric rigorously tests its frames 150,000 times under tough conditions for quality assurance.

This commuter e-bike that rides like a cruiser has a pedal assist range of 65 miles and throttle range of 58 miles on a 900W peak motor that generates 65 Nm of torque.

Discover 1 Plus – Save up to $550

Velotric Go 1 Ebike

Velotric’s Go 1 Ebike is small but mighty – it can carry up to 440 pounds comfortably. This ride has hydraulic suspension and a plush saddle, and it can be kitted out with a wide range of accessories, making it a versatile form of transport for everything from a fun day out to carting groceries across town.

It’s powered by Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H50 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 55 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a peak 900W motor.

Go 1 – Save up to $400*

Regular price: $1,399 ~~$1,699~~
Promotion: Get $100 off total saving $400
Discounted price: $1,299
Get 3 accessories & unlock 30% off on selected accessories

*Not included in the early-bird Black Friday deal, this deal runs from November 8-28 only

Velotric Packer 1 Ebike

From kids to cargo, the Velotric Packer 1 Ebike was designed to haul it all! The Packer 1 features Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H75 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 52 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a 750W motor.

It can carry up to 440 pounds and has a 176-pound rear cargo carry capacity, plus hydraulic suspension with 80 mm of travel for a smooth ride. If you’re running a child to school every day, this would be a fantastic choice. Be sure to check out all the great accessories.

Packer 1 – Save up to $600