Arcistratega: a 10-m electric RIB with a focus on autonomy and accessibility

Electric propulsion continues to make headway in pleasure boating. However, questions of autonomy and on-board use remain at the heart of the debate. Presented by AS Labruna, the new Arcistratega provides its own response to these issues.

The electrification of pleasure boats still faces a number of challenges: limited autonomy, on-board energy management and maintaining on-board comfort when moored for long periods. This is where Arcistratega comes in, a 10-meter RIB developed on a Python 33 platform and presented by AS Labruna. The project combines :

  • electric propulsion,
  • on-board power generation
  • digital boat tracking solutions
  • while incorporating features to facilitate access for people with reduced mobility.

Electric propulsion to exceed 100 miles of range

Arcistratega is 10 metres long and 3.80 metres wide. The boat is fitted with two electric outboard motors, each developing 300 hp. According to data provided by AS Labruna, this configuration would enable a maximum speed of 40 knots.

The manufacturer has also announced a range in excess of 100 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 25 knots. A figure which, if confirmed under actual operating conditions, would place this RIB among the most seaworthy electric units currently on the market.

In addition to pure performance, the project aims to demonstrate that an electric unit can meet a wider range of sailing requirements than the short coastal trips often associated with this technology.

Energy management designed for life on board

One of the most technical aspects of the project concerns powering on-board equipment. Arcistratega is equipped with an energy system incorporating high-capacity batteries, solar panels and a methanol-powered fuel cell.

The latter is used to generate electricity at night and during periods when solar production is insufficient. The whole system supplies the on-board domestic equipment, including the galley, refrigerator, air conditioning and various auxiliary services.

AS Labruna reports that the system can supply 2 kW of continuous single-phase alternating current. The aim is to guarantee energy autonomy during anchorages, without the need for a conventional thermal generator. A solution that also aims to limit the noise and vibrations usually associated with such equipment.

Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance

Arcistratega is equipped with the Sea 4.0 system developed by AS Labruna. It provides real-time monitoring of the main parameters relating to propulsion and onboard energy systems.

The data collected is stored in the cloud and then secured. The manufacturer describes this function as a "digital passport" for the boat, gathering usage history, operating data and maintenance operations.

This information is then used by artificial intelligence algorithms to anticipate certain technical interventions. The aim is to improve boat availability and reduce the risk of failure through predictive maintenance.

Specific work on accessibility

In addition to energy efficiency, Arcistratega is distinguished by a series of features designed to facilitate boarding and movement on board for people with motor disabilities.

The boat features a fold-down side planking for wheelchair access. A side crane also facilitates launching, while an anchoring system integrated into the T-Top assists access to the cabin.

In a sector where accessibility solutions are still not widespread on production or semi-production yachts, this approach is one of the most original aspects of the project.

Massimo Labruna, CEO of AS Labruna, sums up the program's philosophy as follows: " Sustainability cannot be limited to a simple reduction in emissions. It must involve technological evolution, real autonomy, an improved onboard experience and the ability to make the sea accessible to all. "

With Arcistratega, AS Labruna and the Python shipyard offer a technological demonstrator combining electric propulsion, on-board energy production, advanced digital monitoring and accessibility features. A package that illustrates the directions currently being explored by part of the boating industry to broaden the uses of electric pleasure craft.

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