The UIM E1 World Electric Powerboat Series will run in 2021, with up to 12 teams competing in entirely electric ‘RaceBird’ boats around seas, lakes and rivers across the globe. The boats have been designed by Sophi Horne and developed by SeaBird Technologies to produce light and fast racing vessels with hydrofoil technologies, which reduce drag and allow for speeds of up to 111km per hour (or 60 knots).
With the aim to raise awareness of environmental issues and improve the conditions of marine ecosystems, races will take place in remote locations around the world, such as those utilised in the Extreme E motor series, as well as other urban backdrops. The series will also contribute to the protection of local marine landscapes by installing electric boat charging systems in each location for the purpose of the championship but to also be left behind for local inhabitants.
The championship will provide a platform for the use of sustainable and clean technology in the marine industry. Alejandro Agag has said of his vision: “My ambition is for the E1 Series to accelerate the adoption of electric boats, to demonstrate how exciting they can be and to promote electric solutions and clean water mobility to marine travel worldwide.”