The Deepseaker is making waves as a groundbreaking Electric Submarine, ingeniously designed with hydrofoils to navigate both above and below the water’s surface. This futuristic vehicle represents a significant leap in marine technology, blending the thrill of high-speed hydrofoiling with the mystery of underwater exploration. Italian-based iSpace2o, the company behind this innovation, has partnered with marine tech leaders like DeepSpeed, known for their advanced hydrojet motors, and Huracan, a manufacturer of electric boat motors, to bring this vision to life.
Funding Fuels Full-Scale Electric Sub Production
A substantial €1.5 million loan from Invitalia, the Italian Economic Ministry’s agency for economic development, has provided the critical financial backing needed to propel the Deepseaker project into full-scale production. Giuseppe Carusi, co-founder of iSpace2o, shared with ViaElettrico, an Italian EV website, that this funding marks the beginning of constructing a full-scale Deepseaker model. This model will be meticulously based on their existing scale models, utilizing precise calculations and hydrodynamic simulations to ensure optimal performance. This financial milestone is a significant step towards realizing the electric sub’s potential and bringing it to market.
Huracan and DeepSpeed electric motors for the Deepseaker electric submarine hydrofoil, showcasing innovative marine propulsion technology.
The electric motors powering the Deepseaker are a key aspect of its innovative design. In September, Huracan, an Italian manufacturer specializing in outboard and inboard motors, was announced as a motor supplier for the project. Carusi detailed the powertrain, stating, “We are talking about a 40 kW engine coupled with a water-jet system.” The electric sub will be equipped with high-performance lithium batteries sourced from Kokam, a renowned South Korean company, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply for both surface and underwater operations.
Further enhancing its propulsion capabilities, DeepSpeed, another Italian startup, brings its cutting-edge hydrojet technology to the Deepseaker. DeepSpeed’s hydrojet system offers notable advantages over traditional waterjet systems, promising enhanced maneuverability and efficiency for this unique electric submarine. The collaboration between Deepseaker and DeepSpeed is a natural fit, combining two Italian innovators in the electric marine sector. The choice between Huracan or DeepSpeed motors for the final product will likely depend on the specific needs and applications envisioned by the buyer, offering customization options for different operational profiles.
The Luxury Electric Submarine Experience
Envisioned as a high-end “car of the sea,” the Deepseaker is targeted towards super yacht owners and luxury eco-resorts seeking to offer exclusive guided tours. With an estimated price tag of around one million euros, this electric submarine is positioned firmly in the luxury market. However, its unique capabilities justify the premium cost, offering an unparalleled experience of both surface hydrofoiling and underwater exploration in a single, sophisticated vehicle.
According to iSpace2o’s website, the Deepseaker is designed to achieve speeds of 23+ knots in hydrofoil mode on the surface and can dive to depths of 40-50 meters. This impressive underwater capability is achieved using an inflatable ballast tank located beneath the cockpit. Safety and user-friendliness are paramount in the design; the electric sub is equipped with autonomous decision-making features. Carusi explained, “if I go below a depth that is not allowed, the descent stops and brings me back to a safe depth,” ensuring a secure and controlled underwater experience. Seating four occupants, the Deepseaker is designed to provide an intimate and exclusive underwater journey.
DeepSeaker electric submarine cockpit design, illustrating the user interface and controls of this advanced underwater vehicle.
The development timeline for the Deepseaker includes presenting a fully functional prototype in 2021, with a model slated for display at the Dubai Expo in October 2020. This ambitious project shares the innovative spirit of the SeaBubble, another futuristic watercraft. The SeaBubble, an electric hydrofoiling water taxi, has already achieved commercial success, demonstrating the growing market and acceptance for such innovative marine transport solutions. The Deepseaker aims to follow a similar trajectory, potentially redefining luxury marine experiences with its unique blend of electric power, hydrofoil technology, and underwater capability.
In conclusion, the Deepseaker electric sub represents a remarkable fusion of futuristic design and cutting-edge technology. Its development, fueled by significant funding and strategic partnerships, promises to deliver a unique and luxurious marine vehicle, capable of both high-speed surface travel and silent underwater exploration. As the project progresses towards its prototype and eventual production, the Deepseaker is poised to become a symbol of innovation in the electric marine industry.
