The SeaBubble is an experimental hydrofoil, the size of a small car. It is proposed they could be used as water taxis in cities.
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History
Founded by Alain Thébault, designer of the world record breaking Hydroptère, who conceived the idea and Anders Bringdal, they brought together a team in France, with skills in hydrodynamic designing. Finalizing a design in 2016 for a five-person SeaBubble water taxi.
After testing a ⅛ scale prototype, in July 2016 they raised capital of €500,000 to fund the next stage. Full size prototypes are being built and five will be tested on the Seine in Paris in 2017, operating between two landing stages.
It is envisaged that a market exists for SeaBubbles in most cities, as most major cities are built on rivers or have a harbour. It is also hoped to have a design that does not require a pilot, provided legislation is changed to permit the development.
Design
Designed to operate in a no-wake zone, the SeaBubble rises after a few meters and reaches a speed of 11 to 15 km/h (6 to 8 kn), on four skids. This reduces water drag by 40% and increases efficiency, allowing speeds of up to a potential 46 km/h (25 kn).
The SeaBubble is powered by two electrically driven propellers attached to the rear skids. The electric power is replenished at the landing stage by using a mixture of solar panels and turbines to charge the batteries. When fully charged, the SeaBubble has a range of 80–100 km.
Eco friendly
The SeaBubble isEnvironmentally friendly. It is made of biodegradable materials and is, non-polluting with zero emissions. The SeaBubble is silent and as it makes no wake, it will not erode river banks.