The Vripack V20 Solar Racer is no concept fantasy. It’s a one-design solar-powered boat. It was conceived by the Dutch design house to start a new class of boats in an international race circuit. That race, taking place this summer, might just inspire a megayacht owner or two to commission a Vripack V20 as a truly unique tender.
The Vripack V20 is a 19-foot (5.8-meter) Hydro Foiling WIG vessel. In a nutshell, this means it has foils, a.k.a. wings, similar to what the America’s Cup racers showcased last year. Foils create lift and raise the hull out of the water. This in turn reduces drag and increases speed. The Vripack V20, with a 7’6” (2.3-meter) beam and a mere five-inch (0.15-meter) draft, has adjustable foils to lift her hull. The shape of the deck also creates what’s called the Wing in Ground (WIG) effect. This means that, similar to an aircraft, the V20 has a further reduction in drag and increase in lift at a specific height above the water.
The all-fiberglass Vripack V20 isn’t called a Solar Racer for nothing. It’s covered by solar cells that charge lithium-ion batteries. That energy can be stored or transferred straight to the electric motor turning the propeller. Vripack says the boat should be capable of 19 mph (30 kph), even cruise fully on solar power while simultaneously recharging the battery bank. From a megayacht perspective, this means no tender fueling is needed. Plus it’s something out of the ordinary, and isn’t being extraordinary a major selling point for any yacht owner?
Further to that point, the Vripack V20 just received an honor from the UIM, the international governing body of powerboating. The UIM selected the Vripack V20 for a 2013 UIM Environmental Award Special Mention. Special mentions are given to individuals and organizations that exemplify innovation and leadership in protecting the environment while promoting powerboating.
Speaking of promoting powerboating, a few Vripack V20s will race in the inaugural V20 Class component of the DONG Energy Solar Challenge. It’s being held in Holland from June 28 to July 5. Shortly thereafter, they’ll compete in the Solar 1 Monte Carlo Cup.
The video below shows the inspiration and creative thinking behind the Vripack V20.
For more information directly from Vripack about the Vripack V20, fill out our contact form.
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