Torqeedo’s extraordinary experience in electric boat propulsion has led the company to be part of a truly unique project. The result was even more exceptional. A challenge that has never been successful before and which demonstrates how high-tech applications, such as those implemented by Torqeedo, can give a great drive to ecological transport. Above all, we are referring to ecological transport within natural parks and in areas where keeping human pollution to a minimum is essential.
Dutch project, Torqeedo engine
The project was born from the initiative of Dutch engineers from Amsterdam who worked on the realization of this truly unique vehicle. The collaboration of specialized companies such as Torqeedo was fundamental for the design of the hull.
Mahi 2 is made of composite fibers and its dimensions are very small – 4 meters in length, 50 centimeters in width and one meter in height – the top being covered with Solbian solar panels. The propulsion heart of Mahi 2 is a specially developed engine by Torqeedo (Cruise 3 POD) complete with two packs of Power 24-3500 batteries, as well as the IT infrastructure for navigation and connection to the base. This last section is complete with GPS and the traditional naval Automatic Identification System, as well as a satellite modem.
Electrical and electronic management
Obviously, a special energy management system has been developed to allow the operation of all components at any time of navigation.
The mission that Mahi 2 had proposed was ambitious: the goal was in fact to make an Atlantic crossing with a boat powered exclusively by solar panels and without men on board. Navigation was entrusted to a GPS system managed by the onboard software.
The diary of the crossing
The departure took place on September 22nd, 2021, from the Spanish port of A Coruña, with the aim of reaching Martinique – 8000 km of distance, in total autonomy and without any assistance.
During the trip there has been a communication problem with the base since January. At that point the boat was truly alone and autonomous in its mission. Despite this inconvenience, Mahi 2, propelled by the Torqeedo engine, continued sailing smoothly arriving at destination in March 2022.
It took 6 months to complete the mission, and its success is very important for future applications. It’s the first hull of this type to have successfully completed the Atlantic crossing and, given the complexity of the mission and the loss of contact with the hull in January, the team had not yet planned the recovery mission. At this point, the trip to Martinique is being organized. In fact, apart from the success of the mission, the exact conditions of Mahi 2 and the gathered information must be assessed.
The impact on everyday life and Torqeedo ‘s contribution
These experiences, as surprising as they may seem, are very important for future applications. The creation of boats which are autonomous for energy and fully automated for driving, are one of the new frontiers of technology.
Many marine and river cities around the world are looking for such solutions: Torqeedo is at the forefront in the construction of engines for electric boating and is proud to have contributed to the success of this great achievement.