The Nautical industry and ecological transition: focus on 5 innovative solutions
Several innovations were highlighted at the latest national innovation competition organized annually by the French Nautical Industries Federation and the Paris Nautic Boat Show. Among them, a hydrogen fuel cell technology offering a clean alternative to traditional engines, a new method of building composite boats without the use of molds, a system transforming boats with combustion engines into electric hybrids, ecological solutions for boat maintenance and water management, and a dinghy making foiling accessible to a broader public. Here's a closer look at how these innovations embody the boating sector's commitment to more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly sailing.
Inocel: hydrogen energy for the boating industry
Based in Grenoble and Belfort, Inocel produces hydrogen fuel cell solutions. Inocel's innovation has been recognized for its potential to accelerate the adoption of cleaner energy sources and contribute to decarbonization. Inocel's hydrogen fuel cell system, including the INOCEL Z300 model, is designed to deliver power on demand, making it an ideal energy solution for stationary power generation and marine applications. With an unrivaled output of 300 kW, it is the world's most powerful fuel cell. This modular, high-performance technology is part of a global drive to reduce carbon emissions worldwide. It is also suited to heavy land mobility, offering an efficient, compact energy source for applications requiring power and performance.
Ox Eye: innovative shipbuilding
Ox Eye, a Morbihan-based company, stands out for its innovation in naval architecture, specifically in designing a composite boat without molds. This innovative approach offers greater design flexibility and precision, enabling exceptional customization and adaptability. It meets the needs of shipyards and designers who aspire to combine performance, aesthetics, and durability. This innovative technique minimizes the use of materials during construction and eliminates the need for limited-use molds while guaranteeing excellent sailing performance. Using bio-sourced materials, such as natural flax fibers, is also vital to this innovation, underlining the company's commitment to eco-responsible practices.
BlueNav: hybrid propulsion for sustainable navigation
BlueNav has developed BlueSpin, an innovative system that converts boats powered by gas/diesel engines into hybrid electric boats. This innovation enables a smooth transition to electromobility, offering a boating experience that combines untroubled pleasure with cutting-edge, connected propulsion technology. BlueSpin is designed to be integrated into any boat, supporting sustainable navigation and enabling people to get closer to nature while enjoying modern, efficient mobility.
G&G BoatWash: ecology and efficiency in boat maintenance
G&G BoatWash is renowned for its eco-friendly innovations in boat maintenance, offering ecological afloat careening stations and seawater desalination solutions. The afloat refit stations are designed to minimize the environmental impact of boating activities, using brushes to remove fouling from boats in an environmentally friendly way. In addition, the company's solar-powered seawater desalination solutions provide a source of fresh, drinkable water, helping to conserve water resources. These innovations are crucial for boat owners, marina operators, and port managers, combining operational efficiency with sustainability.
BirdyFish: the dinghy takes flight
BirdyFish has transformed the sailing world by introducing the first double-foiling dinghy, designed to be accessible to all sailors. This innovation, made in France, is characterized by its stability and safety while offering the exhilarating sensations of flight and impressive acceleration. The dinghy combines a scow hull, foils, and a supporting plane on the rudder, enabling it to take off in winds as light as 8-10 knots and promising speeds over 20 knots. BirdyFish is a preferred choice for sailing enthusiasts. It’s an example of innovation that minimizes environmental impact thanks to reduced water resistance and the use of sustainable materials in its construction.
Ecological transition and innovation: a sustainable future
Innovations in the marine sector, such as those presented by Inocel, Ox Eye, BlueNav, G&G BoatWash, and BirdyFish, highlight the growing importance of sustainability, energy efficiency, and marine environment protection. These companies have introduced technologies and solutions that enhance the boating experience but also help reduce environmental impact. Dolphin Charger's PRO Evo3 series chargers fit this greener, more efficient navigation logic.
The PRO Evo3 series results from almost 30 years of experience designing, manufacturing, and distributing power conversion solutions. These ultra-compact, lightweight chargers have high-efficiency DSP technology, guaranteeing optimum performance even under high-temperature conditions. With the best power/size ratio on the market, their technical features speak for themselves: 4 independent isolated outputs to simplify charging systems with multiple batteries, 8 selectable battery chemistry profiles (lead-acid, gel, AGM, lithium-ion, etc.), NMEA 2000 communication protocol for seamless integration into modern navigation systems, ignition protection... Want to find out more? Contact us now!
