Egyptian firm places orders for Neom backed Regent’s seagliders
United Marine Egypt Shipping (UME)
will be the launch customer for Regent’s Monarch seaglider, marking a
significant step forward for this high-speed, over-water electric transport
innovation. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s NEOM and designed for both speed and
efficiency, the Monarch seaglider is a 50-to-100-passenger craft capable of
reaching speeds up to 225 km/h and covering distances up to 650 km, gliding
just above the water’s surface.
Seagliders, all-electric vessels,
blend the speed of aircraft with the low operational costs and maneuverability
of boats. Operating close to the water, the craft benefits from a “ground
effect” that creates a cushion of high-pressure air between the wings and
water, reducing drag and increasing lift. Regent, a U.S.-based maritime
startup, says these vessels will seamlessly integrate into UME’s shipping
network, connecting destinations across the Red Sea.
Along with the Monarch, UME has also
placed an order for Regent’s smaller, 12-passenger Viceroy model. UME’s
chairman, Mohamed Badawy, emphasized the partnership’s focus on advancing
sustainability and efficiency in the shipping industry.
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Both the Monarch and Viceroy are
currently under development, with production planned by the end of the decade.
Lloyd’s Register, a leading UK classification society, will oversee the
certification process.
Since its founding, Regent has
raised $90 million in funding from prominent investors, including 8090
Industries, Founders Fund, Japan Airlines, and Lockheed Martin, as well as Abu
Dhabi’s Strategic Development Funds and NEOM’s Investment Fund. NEOM’s
investment forms part of a multi-year strategy to develop regional seaglider
operations for passenger and freight transport along its 468 km coastline.
Further, Regent has partnered with
the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to establish a manufacturing facility within
the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry cluster in Masdar City by decade’s
end. Additional agreements with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and
Transportation will explore using seagliders to link Delma Island and Sir Bani
Yas Island, enhancing travel options for residents who currently rely on boats
or flights.
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The Monarch and Viceroy seagliders
also hold potential in logistics, with Middle East courier Aramex exploring
their use for middle-mile routes from ports to distribution centers.
Source: https://www.agbi.com/
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