MALS (Mitsubishi Air Lubrication System)

MALS reduces hull friction by releasing a layer of air bubbles from the ship's bottom, which also lowers noise and vibration. MHI first installed it on the module carriers Yamatai and Yamato in 2010, then on the 8,072 GT ferry Naminoue in 2012, where sea trials showed more than 5% better fuel consumption despite 2.5-3 m waves. The system was later applied to cruise ships and featured in the MALS-14000CS container ship concept, which MHI said would reduce CO2 emissions by 35%.