Yachts de Luxe (YdL) of Singapore has placed a commercial 10-year worldwide contract with OXIS Energy valued at US$5 million to build the world's first ever luxury boat to be powered by lithium-sulfur (Li-S) cell and battery systems technology. The objective is to achieve a range between 70 and 100 nautical miles at cruising speed.
OXIS will work with the YdL to design the new 40-ft luxury day boat that will carry a 400-kWh battery system comprising ultra light, high-power cells, and a BMS. The design and manufacture of the cell modules, the BMS, and its installation will be carried out by Williams Advanced Engineering, a subcontractor on the project. This joint effort will secure enhanced safety levels and the necessary elimination of distance and safety anxiety.
OXIS Li-S technology does not use any toxic or rare earth material in the make-up of its cell technology, which is advantageous when building large batteries for maritime vessels. Diesel pollutes, and for maritime purposes, OXIS Li-S battery systems are a safe option for open water transportation. At the end of life, the materials used in the Li-S cells can be disposed of without damaging the environment.
Huw Hampson-Jones, CEO, OXIS Energy, said: "The collaboration with the YdL and the renowned French naval architect Jean Jacques Coste is an example of how entrepreneurial companies are able to use their expertise and move swiftly to deploy new state-of-the-art technology, which brings with it a paradigm shift in maritime transportation. In August 2020, OXIS successfully powered the first ever U.S.-built electric aircraft with a flight time of just under two hours. The flight was approved by both NASA and the Federal Aviation Authority. Our intention is to achieve the same level of success in maritime applications. The collaboration allows us to achieve this and provides a level of safety to our seafaring clients, far beyond existing lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems."
Jean Jacques, director of the YdL, said: "With the highly promising Li-S technology developed by OXIS Energy, we have the perfect match between high power, safety, and eco-friendliness. After years of looking at the evolution of the OXIS Li-S cells, the YdL is pleased to be a key partner of their entry into the marine world through our 40-ft luxury day boat. This is the starting point of numerous projects including service boats and our mega yachts. We are pleased to share this technological challenge with the talented team at OXIS headed by CEO Huw Hampson-Jones and with the reputed engineering company, Williams Advanced Engineering."
The electrified luxury day boat will be on display at the Monaco Boat show in September 2021.
