UK start-up introduces new brand of electric boats

Neva Group, a new UK start-up that was incorporated late last year, is developing a new range of electric day boats and tenders after it secured a first-round low-carbon development grant worth £100k. The zero-carbon Pixii SP (Self and Planet) range is 100% electric and will be built using recyclable materials to deliver the next generation of pleasure boats. They are the brainchild of the Neva Group’s three co-founders, Daniel Simpson, Paul Luscombe and Charles Hall.

With an aluminium hull construction and powered by robust high-end second-life batteries, such as Tesla power packs, the low-maintenance Pixii craft are 100% recyclable. Propulsion from state-of-the-art waterjet drives delivers a fast, efficient, and near-silent driving experience with no exposed propellers and exceptional shallow water access. A remote anchoring solution allows the user to disembark on the beach then use a phone to drive the boat out into deeper water and deploy the anchor. Solar panels are used to power domestic batteries for onboard utilities such as fridges and audio systems.

“Covid-19 has forced an acceleration of the fourth industrial revolution, which is really good news for the advancement of smarter technology,” says managing director Charles Hall. ”By investing in a business that creates a positive impact on the environment, we are delighted to be part of this new wave of cleaner boating. We are extremely proud to launch the Pixii range and wave the British flag for zero-emission boating.”

The Pixii hull has been designed by Whitehouse Yacht Design, and the elegant lines combine the practical attributes of a tough, reliable SUV for the sea with the style and comfort of a cutting-edge tender or day boat. The Pixii SP 750, the first model to be introduced to the range, has an estimated top speed of close to 40kt and a run time of 8-10 hours at 12kt-14kt – enough for a full day out on the water.

With an anticipated 90% reduction in maintenance and running costs, upgrades to Pixii’s electrical specification are also being offered to customers and OEMs that want to convert their existing vessels for economic and environmental benefits. The SP range is also being adapted for the utility and workboat markets for use in harbours, marinas, and offshore renewable vessels. The first customer sea trials are expected to take place in spring 2021.

Source: IBI News