The University’s Sustainable Vessel Returns to the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge

Futura, powered by sustainable technologies including hydrogen, fuel cells, batteries, solar panels, and an electric motor, was developed by the UniBoAT project at the University of Bologna. It will be a highlight at the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge 2024, an international competition dedicated to innovation and sustainability, held from 1 to 6 July.

UniBoAT, involving students, professors, and researchers from the Department of Industrial Engineering at the Unviersity of Bologna, has already proven its worth by winning the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge for three consecutive years in 2021, 2022, and 2023 in the "Energy Class" category. These achievements highlight both the excellence of the technological solutions developed and the team's dedication to sustainable innovation.

The major advancement for 2024 is the electric outboard motor with counter-rotating propellers, enhancing energy efficiency. Since its inception in 2019, the UniBoAT project has continuously evolved, incorporating recyclable materials and state-of-the-art technologies to further minimize environmental impact and maximize renewable energy use.

Students are at the heart of this project: from disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, energy, automation, and computer engineering, as well as economics, they collaborate closely with professors and researchers. This hands-on experience allows them to apply academic knowledge practically and gain valuable skills for their future careers.

UniBoAT represents a significant step forward in green technology research and development, offering a platform to educate and inspire future generations. Additionally, the project aims to raise public awareness about the importance of environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

The success of UniBoAT is made possible by the support of numerous partners and sponsors, including leading companies in the nautical and mechanical sectors. These collaborations provide essential resources, expertise, and networking opportunities, enriching the experience for students and researchers involved.

UniBoAT is funded by the European Union - NextGenerationEU - National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) - Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.4 - Project CN_00000023 called Sustainable Mobility Center through MOST.

MOST (National Center for Sustainable Mobility), in collaboration with 24 universities, the National Research Council (CNR), and 24 major companies, aims to implement modern, sustainable, and inclusive solutions nationwide. The project focuses on air mobility, sustainable road vehicles, waterway transportation, rail transportation, light vehicles, and active mobility. MOST aims to make the entire mobility system greener and more digital. This includes lightweight solutions and electric and hydrogen propulsion systems; digital systems for reducing accidents; more effective solutions for public transportation and logistics; and a new model of mobility as a service that is accessible and inclusive.