Why attack the small unit market with the R35?
In 50 years of existence, this is the smallest model we have launched. We have a fairly complete range from 40 feet to 40 m with different styles.
The idea of the R35 is to focus on innovation and technology. This was easier to do on a smaller boat in terms of organization and execution. It is an internal revolution in our development and production processes.
The R35 is an amazing boat in terms of style, with a lot of elegance. It is made of 100% carbon. This is a first for Princess, but also in the production of series boats.
Why launch a production hydrofoil boat?
Our development objective was stability. In the yachting world, all boats have had the same hull for years and innovations are marginal. We wanted a real innovation and we worked differently with the Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) team.
Before that, I was Managing Director at McLaren Automotive. We have spent 10 years adapting Formula 1 technology to road cars. Today, the CEO of BAR is the former CEO of Mac Laren F1, he is a good friend.
Two and a half years ago, we thought," Before we used to adapt Formula 1 cars to the road, if we did the same with America's Cup boats..." and it took us 20 months to get the boat out and implement all this new technology.
With the Princess R35, we make an exact parallel with what we were doing in the automotive industry.
Can you tell us about the foils?
The Princess R35 is a traditional looking boat, but equipped with foils. On the other hand, it's not a boat that flies! This is not the objective, we wanted above all to work on stability through the appendices.
The foils are underwater, lower and adapt to adjust the boat's angle of heel and stability. They are electronic, fully automated, inspired by the America's Cup boats and developed by the BAR team. Everything has been patented. The foils automatically exit as soon as they are started and return in the same way when they are stopped.
The objective is to create a range?
No, it is a unique model that has served us as a kind of design office. Now, this system can be developed on larger boats and it will change everything! This is the beginning of something incredible.
What is the navigation program and for which type of boaters?
It is a versatile boat, but above all comfortable and very easy to drive, in all seas. It is also very fast as it easily reaches 50 knots and holds up very well. The change with the other boats is radical. His behavior is amazing!
Even if it's a nervous boat, we have put the emphasis on comfort on board.
How is the Princess R35 in your range in terms of price?
It is the smallest model, but not the cheapest. It is worth the price of a V50, or £500,000 (?561,450). Our order book is full until the end of 2019!
Photo credits: Bateaux.com
