Fast charging solutions for Seabird Technologies
Objective
Our main objective was to apply our many years of expertise in fast charging technology to this innovative project while continuing to develop our existing products. The focus was particularly on opening up new areas of application in the maritime sector. We wanted to offer not only powerful technical solutions, but also tailor-made interfaces that meet the high requirements of special applications. A particular focus of this project was the implementation of a reliable and efficient fast charging infrastructure for fully electric foil racing boats.
Approach and technological concepts
The first step was to work closely with our partner, the E1 boat manufacturer Seabird Technologies. We started by developing a fast-charging interface as a proof of concept to validate the basic technical feasibility. We used modern power electronics, robust housing materials, and modular interface architectures to enable flexible integration.
After successfully completing tests, the interface was further developed into a customized solution. We paid particular attention to high charging power, mechanical resilience, and weather and corrosion resistance – crucial criteria for use in extreme maritime conditions.
Challenges and solutions
Working in a maritime environment presented specific challenges:
- Corrosion protection: Salty air and water require special coatings and materials.
- Mechanical stability: Strong vibrations and impacts during high-speed travel had to be taken into account.
- Integration into existing systems: The charging infrastructure had to harmonize with the complex on-board electronic systems of the boats.
To overcome these challenges, we conducted intensive testing under real-world conditions, developed reinforced housing structures, and implemented intelligent communication protocols for seamless integration into the boat systems. Close coordination on site with engineers, designers, and technicians from Seabird Technologies proved to be a decisive factor in the project's success.
Results
The project led to a new generation of fast-charging interfaces designed specifically for demanding marine applications. The solutions are not only robust and multifunctional, but also offer a high level of operational reliability even under extreme conditions. Through the successful integration at Seabird Technologies, we were able to demonstrate that our fast charging technology can also be used reliably and efficiently in the high-performance maritime sector. In addition, the project laid the foundation for further cooperation in the field of fully electric drive systems and strengthened our position as a competent technology partner in this segment.
