Tuesday, March 19, 2024

U-Boat Worx Super Sub can cruise faster than a dolphin

U-Boat Worx, the Dutch submersible company, has announced major performance improvements to its fully-electric, three-passenger Super Sub. The ultra-luxury submersible, which has a depth rating of 300 meters, is now the most flow-dynamic submersible the world has ever seen.

The Super Sub was introduced in 2021 as U-Boat Worx’s fastest and most maneuverable design, with the ability to deal with strong currents. The submersible was originally estimated to have a top speed of 8 knots (9.2 mph), which has now been boosted to 10 knots (11.5 mph). This is 3-4 knots faster than the top cruising speed of a bottlenose dolphin and 7 knots faster than the average submersible.

The speed boost is the result of a collaboration with a renowned Dutch maritime research institute specializing in computational flow dynamics.

The submersible’s top speed was improved from 8 knots to 10 knots
The submersible’s top speed was improved from 8 knots to 10 knots. Credit: U-Boat Worx

The Super Sub features the best-in-class propulsion system with four powerful thrusters delivering 60 kW of thrust. When combined with its rear hydrofoils, it allows for steep 30-degree climbs and dives. The result is the smoothest and most exhilarating underwater experience, all while maintaining a 360-degree view.

The submersible is powered by 62-kWh lithium-ion batteries, which are good for up to eight hours of underwater use on a single charge.

The Super Sub is the first in the company’s custom submersible program. The submersible has been sold to its first owner, and U-Boat Worx plans to begin sea trials in 2023.