THE PROJECT
The Messina Energy Boat (MEB) is an initiative with a clear and ambitious mission: to design and build a zero-emission, electrically powered boat that sets a new standard for sustainable navigation. Our boat successfully participated in the 2023 and 2024 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, a prestigious international competition focused on innovative and sustainable solutions in the maritime sector. In 2024, our boat Guglielmino also showcased its capabilities at the first Sardinia Innovative Boat Week.
Beyond these competitions, we are dedicated to promoting marine culture and sustainability in the Strait of Messina, engaging the local community and raising awareness of eco-friendly maritime practices. We believe that the sea is a valuable resource that must be preserved, and that sustainability can drive lasting positive change for future generations. Our team is already working on the next vessel for the upcoming MEBC 2025, continuing our journey towards a cleaner and more innovative future in maritime technology.
Project of the boat that participated in the 10th edition of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge
Propulsion
The MEB boat had a propulsion system consisting of:
- Traction battery
- Service battery
- Engine and associated systems
Structure
The entire project was created with Eco-Friendly materials and raw materials in order to minimize CO2 emissions. The design of the tubular aluminum frame had two main objectives: to ensure adequate mechanical response to the expected load conditions and to minimize mass. The structural design was therefore supported by numerical analyses, which made it possible to select, through an iterative process, an optimal configuration, minimizing costs, reducing times and respecting feasibility constraints. The external covering was instead made with recycled sails. Team members, local suppliers and sponsors were involved in the production of the cockpit and its cover, in order to promote a combination of innovation, tradition and sustainability.
Safety
Safety is one of the fundamental aspects. Since there are very strong limitations on the total weight, we tried to obtain the best mix in terms of energy/weight/power in order to guarantee compliance with the regulation and obtain a prototype with the highest performance possible in terms of energy efficiency. The total weight was 228kg.
Pilot
By regulation he must have a boating license and must not be tied to the boat in any way, in fact even seat belts are not allowed. The cockpit by regulation must be equipped with high visibility tape to reflect sunlight.
