Norco will be supplying RS Sailing’s sister company RS Electric Boats with the composite components for their new Pulse58.
Following 2 years of research and development at RS’s base-camp in Romsey, Southampton UK, the Pulse58 is an entirely bespoke design for a fully integral electric drive in a 5.8m RIB.
In line with RS’s focus on sustainability alongside zero emissions, the short distance between RS’s facility and NORCO’s site in Poole, influenced the brand to be selected as the primary composites manufacturer for this new electric boat. The short transport time will ensure a lower carbon footprint.
Simon Mitchell, Production Manager at NORCO comments: “Norco look forward to a long term partnership with RS Sailing to move this range forward, and in time hopefully others”.
Pulse58’s sustainable composite construction comprises of Bio-based infused epoxy resin, recycled PET core material and naturally sourced basalt and flax fibres. These fibres are incredibly strong and energy absorbing. RS aims to bring to market the most sustainable laminate of any RIB in the sector. This innovative laminate is lightweight and long lasting in even the most extreme environments.
John Smith, Project Engineer at RS Electric Boats said: “The Pulse58 is revolutionary due to its huge depth of technology and innovation, it defines a new genre of motorboats. Similar to electric cars, full electric drive requires a change of mindset and habits of use that match its capability. These small changes are key to protecting the future of our planet and continued enjoyment of boating in a sustainable way.”
According to Norco, the marine industry is yet to have a defined future for alternative energy and trails behind automotive manufacturers in terms of engine emissions. Evolving environmental attitudes and imminent changes to law around the world are driving demand for a different approach to boating that removes the negative impact of a fossil fuel burning motor.
Norco are looking forward to a long and successful relationship with RS Electric Boats and to help them achieve their goal of a sustainable product through our composites expertise.
The PULSE 58
With a range of 35 miles at its maximum speed of 20+ knots, the ground-breaking PULSE58 is the first ever production RIB with a fully integral electric drive
Backed by 25 years of design and build experience in zero emissions boating, the PULSE58 blends proven automotive electronic technology and an extremely efficient electric drive optimised hull form, with the highest level of sustainable construction of any boat in its sector.
A 57kWh battery bank stored in a purpose designed underfloor structural case delivers up to 104v to the ground-breaking RAD drive propulsion unit. RAD drive is a unique and integral retractable drive unit that belt feeds power from the twin motors to a hub-less drive unit. The electronic management system controls all aspects of the drive, motor control and battery conditioning and also controls the electric drive tilt mechanism that lifts the RAD drive into the transom in shallow water.
PULSE58’s hull has been purposely designed for its electric drive. The tunnel hull form and long waterline length give decreased low speed drag that suits the instant torque of electric power, while providing a stable and manoeuvrable platform at speed. The battery bank deep in the hull lowers the centre of gravity, increasing comfort. Hypalon tubes and an integral cockpit non-slip floor combine to give a high quality and long-lasting finish.
PULSE58 key data
Length (moulding ex tubes): 5,625 m / 18.45 ft
Beam (moulding ex tubes): 2,182 m / 7.15 ft
Length (including inflated tubes): 6,067 m / 19.90 ft
Beam (including inflated tubes): 2,590 m / 8.50 ft
Weight ex batteries and motor: 280 kg / 617 lbs
Displacement weight with two crew: 840 kg / 1851 lbs
Materials
All core is made out of wood and PET Core (recycled Plastic bottles)
20% Bio content infusion epoxy
Enriched basalt fiber (full recyclable and reusable very low Carbon manufacture foot print)
Natural Flax fiber
Sustainable sourced Glass fiber and carbon reinforcement.
