ongoing

The aim of this project is to create a new generation of medium power environmentally–friendly marine propulsion and energy regeneration systems

Project Insights

  • €265,018

    Total Project Costs
  • 2 yr

    Project Duration
  • 2018

    Year Funded

Project Description

The aim of this project is to create a new generation of medium power (12-15KW/20-30HP) environmentally friendly marine propulsion and energy regeneration systems that will replace what is currently termed “outboard motors”. w1Da has already developed an initial low power 4 to 6kw prototype system that is currently powering its prototype w1Da 33 yacht. This proves the concept but several areas of improvement have been identified. By providing the resources to inject academic expertise and water tank testing, as well as increasing electrical, magnetic, structural, hydrodynamic and environmental analysis, this project will create a prototype of an advanced system. This will lead and underpin a new generation of internationally competitive products, that can extend from small to large boats, from sailing to powerboats and address several other marine markets in the future. This project aims to build upon the team's current working prototype by developing an environmentally-friendly system with zero emissions. The potential financial benefits to boat users in Ireland are significant: the team aims to prototype an initial configuration that could cost less than half that of petrol and diesel motors over a ten year lifetime. The technical advantages are a steep change and improvement in reliability. According to RNLI figures, 84% of callouts to boats in distress are created by the breakdown of the gas-guzzling hydrocarbon-based motors, that have more than 400 parts and need expert maintenance. For people, flora and fauna and marine life in Ireland, the short and long term benefits of a silent non-polluting propulsion systems will be profound, as every fisherman, sailor, skier, and the entire coastal community will be able to enjoy a cleaner environment with a significant reduction in noise and water pollution.

Project Details

Total Project Cost: €265,018

Funding Agency: Marine Institute

Year Funded: 2018

Lead Organisation: w1Da Experience Ltd

Partner Organisation(s): University College Cork (UCC); University of Southampton

Rory Staunton

Lead Researcher