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Sea Bubbles at Composites for Europe in Stuttgart

09 Sep '20
2 min read
Pic: Composite Europe
Pic: Composite Europe

Come November, and one can experience “Sea Bubbles” - at Composites for Europe in Stuttgart, the three-day composites show beginning November 10. Sea Bubbles are the hydrogen-powered water taxis, developed by the Frenchman Alain Thébault together with the Swede Anders Bringdal. The name “Bubbles” refers to the drop shape of the environment-friendly vehicle.

Sea Bubbles are fast, futuristic composites taxis which float emission-free on foils on stilts half a metre above the water. Powered by an electric motor, they move silently at speeds of up to six knots. The experience at the composites is being provided with the logistical support provided by Kühne+Nagel.

The idea actually goes back to Thébaults’ daughters. “After reaching the speed record with the Hydroptère, my three daughters suggested to me that I make myself useful for the society. I wanted to share the flying experience and open waterways for everybody. The goal is to make the riding experience on waterways the best possible so that people will be glad to choose the most eco-conscious transport solution,” says Thébault, CEO and founder of Sea Bubbles.

“The challenges for Sea Bubbles relies on lightweight, strong and reliable materials that can be taken up industrially. Previous versions have investigated the potential of carbon fibre and glass fibre. Large assemblies are realised with special glues. We are looking closely at new sustainable and/or biosourced composite materials such as wax and vegetal fibres,” says Thébault,.

Four people can be transported from one place to another. With two T-foils in the stern area and one at the bow, no one need fear becoming seasick. The stabilisation system is similar to that of airplanes. It keeps the water taxi always in a horizontal position.

The designers and founders of the start-up have successfully tested their innovation on the Seine in Paris and on Lake Geneva. The testing period is over. Thébault says, “We are starting the industrialisation phase. The first Sea Bubbles will be operating in August 2021 and the first one will be delivered to the Auvergne Rhône Alpes Region in France.”

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SV)

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