A city usually associated with the well-heeled on their superyachts and in their Formula 1 supercars is pioneering a new type of racing: a powerboat race fueled by solar energy, called The Monte Carlo Cup.

Sea trials before Monte Carlo Cup 2014

A solar-powered electric raceboat completing sea trials in the harbour at Monte Carlo, the site of the Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup July 10-12.



Taking place on July 10-12th 2014, this is a first of kind race with electric boats powered by the sun. Competitors from all over the planet will gather to fight it out in a series of races designed to demonstrate the full capabilities of these boats in terms of solar power, maneuverability, their technical performance.

 

Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup: event format


Each day will be punctuated by three races: “Slalom”, “Fleet” and “One-on-one sprint”. With the winner receiving the first ever ‘green’ crown in powerboat racing.

Participants will be divided into three classes. The first is the simplest: “Challenge A-class.” The second, “Open Class” does not limit the size of the boat, allowing teams to innovate on their designs, both in the form of solar panels that propulsion etc. And finally, the “V20″ which is more of a one-design idea with ‘stock’ electric boat, for those without the deep pockets to develop a custom boat.

 

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Boats have lithium-ion batteries and solar cells can charge the batteries or provide direct power to the propeller.

Not only is this ground breaking in terms of energy source, but also that the boats are being designed to be as light weight and with little water resistance as possible. The Vripack solar engineering team has accomplished this by adding wings or foils, to the hull of the V20 so it can ‘fly’ like the America’s Cup boats. By creating lift (upward pressure), the foils raise the complete hull out of the water, thus reducing drag as much as possible as drag costs energy. By trimming the tip of the wing, the optimal mode of the boat can be set. The more energy left for making speed, the sooner the boat lifts on to her foils and the faster she goes.

V20 sea trials - Monte Carlo Cup

V20 solar-powered foiling electric raceboat in Monaco in preparation for the Monte Carlo Cup.



As well as raising awareness and educating the world in the latest innovations of solar power and green technology, the regatta organisers, Solar1 are also aiming to be a Sailors for the Sea gold level clean regatta. This means committing to best practices including no trash overboard, no discharge, recycling, biodegradable or reusable products for events (such as cups, plates, cutlery etc.).

For more information on Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup go to www.solar1races.com.

For more news and reviews relating to alternative nautical propulsion, see: Greenline 40: Still an Attractive Hybrid Concept, 5 alternatives to petrol-powered outboard engines and Code X: the 47ft renewable energy speed machine.