10041013Ultra-efficient Electric Boats and Drive System - Leisure & Water TaxisClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThis is a collaborative project between Optima Projects, RAD Propulsion, Fawley Waterside and Red Funnel. Optima are developing an innovative range of electric boats for the leisure marine market and for commercial applications such as water taxis. Optima have developed an ultra-efficient hull that significantly reduces energy consumption, enabling much greater range to be achieved under battery power compared to other electric boats, whilst still providing a top speed of 20 knots or more. This project develops and optimises a 12m version of the Optima hull suitable for both leisure and commercial applications. Range under battery power can be up to 200 miles with much greater comfort and safety compared to a conventional planing hull. The boat will include a very efficient and lightweight FRP composite structure highly optimised using computer modelling and finite element analysis to minimise weight, maximise efficiency and reduce cost. RAD Propulsion are developing a new pod drive with a high degree of connectivity into the rest of the boat systems. This will provide exceptional manoeuvrability and ease of handling and will be lightweight and energy efficient to further enhance the overall efficiency of the boat. As part of this project, we will fit the new steerable 40kW drive to our existing 10m test boat, for future sea trials, testing and demonstrations. Fawley Waterside are building a whole new town with 1500 homes and significant marine industry space at the entrance to Southampton Water. This location has limited road infrastructure and alternative means of sustainable transport via the water is critical to the overall success of the development, providing transport links for workers, visitors and residents alike. Red Funnel are an established ferry operator in the region and could potentially run the water taxi service. This project will represent a major advance in sustainability in the marine industry and in the Solent region. The through-life cost of ownership of electric leisure boats will be significantly lower than a comparable conventional powerboat and will encourage engagement from a wider and more diverse customer base. The proposed fleet of water taxis will provide flexible on-demand services, able to operate at high occupancy levels and with zero emissions and low running costs. The boats may be manufactured, stored and maintained at the Fawley site, bringing new high value jobs to the area and establishing new businesses with significant growth and export potential.