Sea or river, two different programmes
The LSCAT-HE is a 100% hybrid electric aluminium catamaran, available in two versions. The first version is intended for coastal or river navigation throughout Europe (length from 11 to 20 m) and the second version - transatlantic - (15 m to 20 m) allows you to sail on the high seas, cold or hot. The two models are the same, differentiated only by the length of the hull. The river is certified in category B and the transatlantic in category A.
"This catamaran is intended for a private market, but can also be used by NGOs for research missions thanks to the 100% electric mode. Because it is hybrid, it is able to travel long distances using only solar energy. Thermal energy will be used mainly to go to a specific navigation area. The other advantage is that you can sail in a protected area at up to 6 knots in 100% electric mode and thus preserve the seabed, do not pollute and sail in silence" explains Angi Le Floch, the company's manager.
An intelligent energy management system
The LSCAT-HE is combined with a dual hydrojet propulsion system with hybrid electric motor, two diesel generators, a lithium battery park and a large photovoltaic solar roof (50 m2 of panels for fuel economy of the generators). "This automatic hybrid system is a world first since we are the only ones to offer this automatic diesel-electric propulsion. Usually, the boats offered are either all solar or all electric."
Its intelligent energy management system optimizes its use, making it more economical and efficient, as Angi le Floch explains.
"Everything is automatic. If it is sailing below 6 knots and there is enough sun, it will be in electric mode. If the speed increases a little, the first generator starts up and so on. However, fuel for generators will have to be used for night sailing. The advantage of this system is that you don't have to go back to port at night to get electricity, with intelligent energy storage."
The catamaran reaches a maximum speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 8 knots with standard groups of 2x84 kW. It can sail up to 12 knots at cruising speed with 2x225 kW groups.
A water jet propulsion system
The LSCAT-HE has no propeller or shaft line for easy handling. Manoeuvring is also easier, and does not require a bow thruster, even at low speed, thanks to waterjet propulsion.
"With this side-by-side water jet propulsion, there is no propeller in the water. The propeller is fairing and it's better in terms of propulsion mode. We're going to win by draught and not destroy the seabed. We have a better overall efficiency of the boat, because the waterjet is coupled to an electric motor. And since there is no angle transmission, energy is saved unlike a pod system. The objective is not to go fast. And with the absence of a bow thruster, there is no drag and therefore no slowing of the boat," explains the manager.
An armoured aluminium coating
The Luxury Sea catamaran is designed entirely with an aluminium hull and a coating that ensures durability and resistance to abrasion, ageing and atmospheric agents with antifouling properties. A process detailed by Angi le Floch "Its armor allows it to run aground anywhere, on ice or in the sand, without damaging the hull. The standard aluminum shell is protected with an integral coating that encapsulates the aluminum and has antifouling properties. This eliminates all electrolysis phenomena and eliminates the need for paint on the boat. It's an internally developed element specifically for LSCAT-HE."
A custom interior design
The interior is customised according to the sailing programme and the number of people on board. "We don't have a template, we make boats of several sizes, whether for inside or outside. We listen to the client's sailing program and develop the boat according to his wishes" concluded Angi Le Floch.
On board, there is a forward and aft cockpit saloon, a fully equipped electric galley and a saloon with table and wheelhouse with large central steering console on the main deck. The hulls house the cabins, all with double bed, bathroom with toilet and shower cabin as well as many storage spaces.
The LSCAT-HE is entirely built in France with a starting price for the river version (cat. B) of 250 000 ? HT and 400 000 ? HT for the transatlantic version.
