APX hydroplane
Development prototype for the world's fastest electric boat
A prototype for the world record
APX (Advanced Planing Experimental) is a 14ft hydroplane designed by CDAerostructures to validate technologies to raise the world electric water speed record from the current 114mph to 200mph. ​
She will yield crucial data on high speed stability and control, and on the integration of a thrust based propulsion system for an electric boat.​​
Not a normal boat
APX is unlike any other boat. At speed she rises up on three flat planing points, designed for maximum efficiency. To deal with waves and keep pitch angle under control, she is fitted with a shock absorbing suspension system.
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Propulsion is provided by an air propeller spinning at 9000RPM, eliminating the drag associated with a water-based propulsion system. At speed, only a razor sharp stabilising fin protrudes below the water's surface.
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All of this is necessary to keep the power requirement as low as possible.
Everything to prove
This design is the result of a large amount of research into the problem of speed on water within the constraints of electric propulsion.
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The design was found and then validated using high speed radio controlled models over hundreds of tests. By doing this, analytical calculations and simulations were checked, in addition to investigating handling, stability and spray patterns at speed.
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Wind tunnel testing was performed at the RJ Mitchell tunnel at the University of Southampton to investigate aerodynamic drag and pitch stability.
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APX will be the ultimate validation of this work, and once sucessful, she will pave the way for further innovation and much greater speeds.
Get involved
There isn't another boat like this one. If you want to be a part of this adventure or become a sponsor, get in touch at charles@cdaerostructures.com