• UGI USER
  • Dec 15, 2023
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INDIA’S FASTEST SOLAR-ELECTRIC BOAT “BARRACUDA” LAUNCH

Why in the News?

  • India’s first solar-electric boat, named Barracuda, was launched at the Navalt Solar and Electric Boats yard in Alappuzha, Kerala.
Source: Indian seatrade

Key Features of Barracuda:

  • Speed: Barracuda is positioned as India’s fastest solar-electric boat, contributing to environmentally sustainable maritime transportation.
  • Design and Capacity: Designed by Navalt, the vessel is named after the swift fish.
  • Impressive Specifications: It boasts a range of seven hours on a single charge.
  • Powerful Components:
  • Equipped with twin 50 kW electric motors.
  • Features a marine-grade LFP battery and a 6 kW solar power system.

Environmental Impact and Recognition:

  • Wave Navigation and Silent Operation:
    • Engineered to navigate through waves as tall as four meters.
    • Operates without noise, vibration, and air pollution, enhancing its eco-friendly profile.
  • Awards and Recognition:
    • Barracuda received the world’s best startup award in the mobility and transportation category at the Berlin Start-up Energy Transition Awards 2023.
    • Navalt Solar and Electric Boats, based in Kochi, has earned prestigious awards, including the Gustave Trouve Awards twice.
  • Affordable Alternative: The development of boats like Barracuda aims to provide affordable alternatives to conventional fossil-fueled boats.

The launch of Barracuda marks a significant step towards sustainable and efficient maritime transportation, aligning with India’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.