In October 2023, the German tech startup, eD-TEC, achieved a significant breakthrough with its groundbreaking eD-QDrive all-electric high-performance drivetrain during sea trials in Croatia. This remarkable milestone saw the eD-QDrive system integrated into the Silent Speed 28 hydrofoil-supported catamaran RIB, showcasing the relentless innovation and determination of the Believer Team. The trials not only brought the team closer to realizing their vision of a high-performance, long-range all-electric boat but also provided valuable insights into the challenges and possibilities of electric marine propulsion.
Pushing the Boundaries
In the world of cutting-edge technology, challenges are par for the course, and eD-TEC’s journey was no exception. Overcoming obstacles like electromagnetic interference posed by the powerful motors of the eD-QDrive system, the team displayed unwavering dedication and problem-solving capabilities, demonstrating that steadfast belief in a mission can always yield solutions and drive technological advancements.
Refining the Hydrofoil System
The trials held in Croatia were a pivotal moment for the eD-TEC team as they focused on fine-tuning the hydrofoil system. Their objectives were clear: optimize the placement, pitch, and surface area of the main foil – the structure spanning the gaps between the two outer hulls and the central nacelle – to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, efforts were made to improve the system’s software, introducing functionalities like automatic trim.
Throughout the trials, challenges emerged related to the hull form and foil combination. However, the eD-TEC team, in collaboration with experts and their partners, addressed these issues through meticulous engineering, data analysis, and comprehensive reporting. “We had several issues with the hull and with the hydrodynamics of the hydrofoil-supported catamaran form with foils and the surface-piercing propellers, which has led us to develop new foils,” said Marc Jost, head of strategy at eD-TEC. “It’s been a very painstaking process, a steep learning curve, but with positive developments.”
Improving Reliability
In their relentless pursuit of perfection, the eD-TEC team enhanced the reliability and robustness of the eD-QDrive system. They resolved issues related to electromagnetic noise and improved component cooling. The commitment to creating a reliable, customer-ready control unit showcased their dedication to delivering a high-quality product.
The culmination of their efforts was a remarkable achievement. After experimenting with various foil positions and adjusting the angle of attack, the team transitioned the Silent Speed 28 RIB from cruising at up to 30 knots to full flying, reaching speeds of more than 41 knots. “It’s a completely different feeling with the RIB foiling,” Jost said. “You lift out of the water, and the boat is very calm.”
Complexities and Innovation
The eD-TEC platform, while a technological masterpiece, is not without its complexities. The development of the hydrofoil-supported catamaran hull form, uncharted territory in the marine industry, added another layer of challenge for the eD-TEC team and their partner companies. Achieving the right balance in weight, positioning of components, and foil size required careful coordination.
One of the key enablers of their success was their approach to data. By live-streaming data from the boat during trials into the cloud, the team had the ability to assess the results of different adjustments in real-time. This real-time analysis helped them determine which changes were driving improvements in performance and efficiency.
“It’s a complex machine, but with all the data and analytic tools we have, and all the data our architecture supplies us, we’re very confident we can make big inroads into performance and efficiency,” Jost concluded. “We have access to all the data from all the components, and we know everything that happens in every component at any given time. We’ve made a big step with these trials – these are very exciting times.”
All Photo Credits: Julius Osner
