Q&A · 1:59:21-1:59:48

What might power future cargo ships

Fully solar- or wind-powered cargo ships seem unlikely in this answer, while electric systems and hydrogen-based hybrids offer more plausible paths.

Question

Could cargo ships become fully wind-powered or use solar-wind hybrid propulsion again?

Short answer

Complete wind or solar propulsion seems unlikely, while electric and hydrogen-based hybrid systems are more plausible.

Notes

Electric cargo ships already exist, but solar or wind alone is unlikely to power most large vessels. A mixed system involving hydrogen and another energy source is more plausible. Complete wind power and a solar-wind hybrid remain possible experiments rather than established solutions for most commercial tonnage. These are broad propulsion directions without a mature design or timetable.