WORLD’S FIRST HYDROGEN-ELECTRIC IMOCA YACHT UNDER CONSTRUCTION

The world’s first hydrogen fuel cell powered IMOCA race yacht is being built in France for a British skipper.

Phil Sharp, who heads sustainable sports management company OceansLab, will race the yacht in the 2024 Vendée Globe solo round the world yacht race.

The new monohull designed by Sam Manuard is under construction at Black Pepper Yachts, builders of highperformance boats. The build is using existing moulds that have been recycled and reworked.

It is due to be launched in the summer, ready for Phil to compete in the IMOCA Globe Series starting with the Transat Jacques Vabre in autumn, followed by a return qualifying race for the Vendée Globe 2024.

Phil will aim to demonstrate scalable clean technologies within the maritime sector.

“IMOCA race boats are the most innovative and extreme of ocean-going vessels. They are an ideal platform to showcase vital clean technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells, and prove their durability in the harshest of ocean environments,” explained Phil.

The yacht will incorporate hydrogen fuel cell technology, using to a hydrogen power module, created and developed by Genevos which produces fully integrated marine fuel cell packs.

It is believed to be the first race boat to integrate a hydrogen-electric energy system. The system will power all on board energy, in addition to propulsion outside of the races.

“Replacing fossil fuel power with renewable energy solutions is an important step forward not only for our sport, but the entire maritime sector,” said Phil. “Ultimately, I am sailing to win races, while also proving that by using the latest clean technologies, this can be done with zero emissions.”

OceansLab will also be incorporate other sustainable materials recyclable composite materials and solar PV.