British company Neva Group says it has begun development of a new range of electric day boats and tenders, which it claims will offer clean and quiet technology without compromising on style and performance. The zero-carbon Pixii range will 100% electric and built using recyclable materials.
With a name inspired by Hippolyte Pixii – who invented the first magneto-electric generator in 1832 – the boats are the brainchild of the Neva Group’s three co-founders, Daniel Simpson, Paul Luscombe and Charles Hall, who felt there was an opportunity to create a range of sustainable boats to help alleviate environmental degradation in our world’s oceans.
The aluminum-hulled vessels, designed by Whitehouse Yacht Design, will use second-life automotive batteries coupled to a waterjet propulsion system. They will also feature a remote anchoring system, allowing users to control the vessels from a beach or anchorage; solar panels will be used to power onboard appliances. The Pixii SP 750, the first model to be introduced to the range, has an estimated top speed of close to 40kts and a run time of 8-10 hours at 12-14kts.
The company’s MD, Charles Hall, said, “Covid-19 has forced an acceleration of the fourth industrial revolution, which is really good news for the advancement of smarter technology. 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.”