According to the International Maritime Organization, shipping accounts for 3% of global CO₂ emissions. AEAUTO REEC platform combines lithium batteries, solar panels, and wind energy, offering a 100% emission-free solution. At the forefront of this revolution is AEAUTO (Zhuhai) Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Nanjing AE System Technology Co., Ltd., which has developed the groundbreaking Range Extend Electric Catamaran (REEC) platform.
This innovative electric yacht powertrain system redefines marine propulsion by combining cutting-edge electrification, renewable energy integration, and intelligent management solutions to deliver a zero-emission, high-efficiency sailing experience.
The REEC Platform: A Multi-Energy Powerhouse
The REEC platform represents a paradigm shift in marine propulsion, integrating four distinct energy sources: lithium batteries, solar panels, wind power, and a range extender generator. This hybrid architecture ensures unparalleled flexibility and reliability.
Lithium Battery Core
At the heart of the system lies a high capacity 284 kWh lithium battery pack, engineered for safety and longevity. Featuring flame-retardant materials, advanced thermal management, and 24/7 health monitoring, the battery provides a baseline range of 120 nautical miles at 7 knots. Its modular design allows scalability for diverse vessel sizes and operational needs.
Solar Energy Integration
A 40-square-meter solar array generates up to 40 kWh daily, supplementing the battery and extending the range by 15 nautical miles. This not only reduces reliance on grid charging but also enables energy autonomy in sun-rich regions.
Wind Power Utilization
The REEC platform leverages wind energy through a reverse-charging mechanism. When sails propel the catamaran, the propellers drive the electric motors in reverse, converting kinetic energy into stored electricity. This innovation transforms sailing into a dual-purpose activity: propulsion and power generation.
Range Extender for Unlimited Sailing
A compact onboard generator acts as a backup, activating only when renewable sources are depleted. This ensures uninterrupted voyages, with a theoretical maximum range exceeding 1,135 nautical miles.
Technological Advancements: Power, Efficiency, and Intelligence
AEAUTO REEC incorporates components and intelligent systems to optimize performance:
1.Dual-Motor Propulsion
Twin 120 kW electric motors deliver 1,000 Nm of torque each, enabling smooth acceleration and a top speed of 30 knots. The dual-motor setup ensures redundancy and enhances maneuverability, even under full load.
2.Smart Energy Management
The system dynamically allocates power from batteries, solar, and wind based on real-time conditions. Predictive algorithms optimize energy use, while telematics monitor battery State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH).
3.MegaWatt Charging Station
AEAUTO collaborates with partners to deploy high speed charging stations, supporting rapid turnaround for commercial fleets. Trickle-charging protocols minimize battery degradation, extending lifespan.
Environmental and Operational Benefits
The REEC platform addresses both ecological and economic challenges:
Zero Emissions
By eliminating fossil fuels, the system produces no CO2, NOx, or particulate emissions, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
Cost Efficiency
Operating costs plummet to one-tenth of traditional diesel vessels, with minimal maintenance requirements for electric drivetrains.
Silent Operation
Electric propulsion reduces noise pollution, enhancing passenger comfort and minimizing disturbance to marine ecosystems.
Sustainable Materials
Recyclable composites and eco-friendly interior finishes further reduce the environmental footprint.
Global Applications and Case Studies
Thailand: A ferry electrification project aims to replace diesel engines with REEC systems, reducing emissions in tourist-heavy waterways.
Finland: Collaboration on an electric icebreaker leverages the platform’s torque-rich motors to cut ice resistance by 50% compared to conventional designs.
Australia: Luxury eco-tourism operators utilize REEC catamarans for silent, emission-free coastal tours.
Driving the Future of Maritime Mobility
AEAUTO highlights ambitious goals: By 2025, REEC systems will dominate inland and offshore cargo markets, while 2026 targets certification for port-operated and commercial vessels. With 30 patents and a robust R&D pipeline, the company is poised to lead the transition to green shipping.
With REEC already operational in three continents, AE Auto aims to replace 20% of Asia’s coastal diesel fleets by 2030, setting a new standard for zero-emission maritime transport. As industries and consumers prioritize eco-conscious solutions, AEAUTO electric yacht powertrain system stands as a beacon of innovation, proving that performance and sustainability can coexist on the open seas. By reimagining maritime mobility, this technology not only protects oceans but also for tourism, commerce, and global trade.