In a significant move toward sustainable marine transportation, Ultimate Boats, based in Glasgow, will soon have access to advanced hydrogen-based propulsion technology, thanks to a new strategic partnership. The company’s parent, ExoTechnologies, headquartered on the Isle of Man, has signed an agreement with RONN, an Arizona-based builder of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
This collaboration is set to revolutionize the construction of harbour vessels and workboats with hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, developed jointly for commercial, tactical, and military high-performance watercraft. Shane Mugan, CEO of ExoTechnologies, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, stating, “We are aiming to develop a clean hydrogen-electric propulsion solution for our boats. This new system will propel our recyclable high-performance craft into a new era of marine technology.”
The partnership will enable Ultimate Boats to incorporate this technology in building various types of workboats for harbour services and marine support duties. These could range from line handlers and pilot boats to patrol and security vessels, all pivotal in maneuvering ships in ports.
Ultimate Boats recently completed its first fully recyclable workboat made from its patented DANU composite material for Police Scotland, marking a milestone in sustainable boat building.
Ronn Ford, chairman and CEO of RONN, echoed Mugan’s sentiments, highlighting the shared goal of transforming the marine industry. “Together, we will strive to help drive the marine industry’s transformation, leaving behind a legacy of clean energy and inspiring change for generations to come,” Ford said. “It is our shared vision to create a sustainable future through innovative propulsion solutions.”
This partnership not only paves the way for a new generation of environmentally friendly harbour workboats but also signifies a major step forward in the global shift towards greener marine technologies.
