There are quite a few electric hydrofoil (e-foil) boards on the market right now, and most of them are … well, they’re pretty similar to each other. But the handlebars, dual motors, and dual external battery packs definitely make the HydroBlade stand out.
A second prototype form, HydroBlade, is currently being developed by Florida-based startup Pelagion.
Like other e-foils, its body sits flush with the water at low speeds, but rises with front and rear foils as speed increases. not like other e-foil, it’s not one, two An electric motor with a peak output of 8kW/continuous output of 5kW mounted on the rear foil.
These allow the craft to reach a claimed top speed of 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and reportedly allow a runtime of around 4 hours on a 4-hour charge of dual 5.5 kWh lithium battery modules. . These 29 kg (64 lb) modules are proudly displayed on the deck rather than hidden inside the vehicle.
This design is claimed to help keep the HydroBlade’s overall weight down (it is said to weigh 104 kg/229 lbs), making it easier to robotically produce the modules. This setup also allows the batteries to be easily removed and recharged, or quickly swapped in with a freshly charged second pair of hers.
Pelagion
Additionally, unlike most (but not all) e-foils, the HydroBlade has a set of handlebars that fold flat against the deck when not in use. These are claimed to help riders maintain stability and give them more control over steering. The bar also has a mount for a smartphone, allowing riders to see stats (via the app) like speed, distance traveled and battery life.
The entire airframe is 3.5 m (11.5 ft) long, but the front foils/canards can be retracted for transport and storage. Its hull is made of an unspecified lightweight composite material and covered with a chip- and impact-resistant ABS skin.
A Pelagion representative said HydroBlade pricing should start at around US$20,000 when production begins. Prospective purchasers can register for the update through her website at the company.
Source: Pelagion
