Wind Powered Freighters Return

thatoneguyfromphoeni writes "It appears that sails could return to the ocean's freighters soon. Newsweek is reporting on a technology to assist with cross-ocean travel. From the article: 'SkySails' system consists of an enormous towing kite and navigation software that can map the best route between two points for maximum wind efficiency. In development for more than four years, the system costs from roughly $380,000 to $3.2 million, depending on the size of the ship it's pulling. SkySails claims it will save one third of fuel costs.'"

Comments

These guys must have solved a major problem

[Anonymous Coward]

Scientists have been puzzling over the best route between 2 points for centuries, but the math has been too difficult.

Double check your code

[CrazyJim1]

"navigation software that can map the best route between two points for maximum wind efficiency"

So yeah Jeff, I was the ultimate cause for the latest oil spill, but anyone could have done it. I forgot to put an upper cap on the windspeed, and damned if the ship didn't go cruising straight into that last hurricane.

Re:don't forget piracy/war...

[Anonymous Coward]

It's copyright infringement, you fucking RIAA shill.

Real hybrid

[Subacultcha]

I'm going to buy a Prius and put a sail on it. That way I can be even more smug than every hybrid owner on the road.

"You call THAT a hybrid? Pfff."