Brightlingsea boatbuilder White Formula UK has partnered with a Bermuda-based business to build a new class of vessel to be used mainly for waterborne commuting.

The partnership will combine White Formula’s expertise in building high-performance sailing boats with e-Link Commuting Co’s electric propulsion systems to develop shuttle craft for inland waterways.

“We are excited to be able to apply composite boat hull manufacturing technology to produce a stronger, lighter boat hull and upper deck based on a modular design that will improve boat delivery and assembly logistics,” said Robert White, founder of White Formula UK. “Innovations that we have learned and have successfully applied in the racing world will be incorporated into this project to help ensure the desired durability and operational performance for e-Link shuttle solution.”

Stephen Olle, eLC UK’s director and project lead for the e-Link shuttle build, added: “Much of what has been learned from high performance sailing design and composite fabrication should be utilised to build commercially viable net-zero shuttles which will have a positive impact on our environment and passenger experience. Our collaboration with White Formula UK provides the necessary confidence in our ability to meet commercial vessel requirements operators will require in various locations around the world”.

The e-Link team will focus on the business model and technical aspects the propulsion system, while White Formula UK will help build the vessel to meet the classification requirements along with input from naval architects, and other suppliers and so that it can be easily transported, assembled, and put into operations in the location identified by various operators around the world.

For more information, see www.elinkcommuting.com.