INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION A hallmark of the RaceBird is its use of hydrofoil technology . At speed , the boat rides on 400mm-high hydrofoils , lifting the hull out of the water . It significantly reduces drag and increases speed and energy efficiency – features that traditional powerboats cannot match . The hull is a composite structure made from a mix of carbon and natural fibres , emphasising the RaceBird ’ s commitment to sustainability without compromising performance .
ADVANCED SAFETY AND COCKPIT FEATURES Safety is paramount in the RaceBird ’ s design . The boat is equipped with an enclosed canopy over the cockpit , similar to a single-seat race car , providing both protection for the pilot and a streamlined profile for the boat . The cockpit ’ s design , featuring a steering wheel and pedals , is a departure from the open layouts seen in traditional powerboats , emphasising control and pilot safety .
DESIGN AND DIMENSIONS
The RaceBird measures 7 metres ( 23 feet ) in length and 3 metres ( 9.8 feet ) in width , with a total weight of 800 kg ( 1,764 lbs ). It features an all-composite hull made from carbon and natural fibre materials .
• Powertrain : It uses a 35 kWh electric powertrain built by Kreisel Electric , capable of reaching speeds up to 58 MPH ( 93 km / h ) with a peak power output of 150 kW ( 201 bhp ).
• Hydrofoil Technology : The RaceBird utilises hydrofoils that lift the boat from the water at speed , reducing drag and maximising energy efficiency . At racing speeds , it rides on 400mm-high hydrofoils .
• Cockpit Design : The cockpit mirrors a single-seater race car with a steering wheel and pedals designed for a single pilot . It features an enclosed safety canopy for pilot protection .
• Testing and Development : The RaceBird prototype has undergone real-world testing on the River Po in Northern Italy , with former powerboat champion Luca Ferrari at the helm . The testing schedule includes straight-line tests , qualifying runs and race simulations to gather data on foiling and handling characteristics . evmagazine . com 17