MartyMcFly42oh
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Do not worry IM back from the future to tell you:Sea Planes are just fuckin cool and I don't know if the new electric age will have them.
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The most prominent new electric seaplane development is the REGENT Seaglider, a 12-passenger electric boat-plane hybrid that began sea trials in March 2025. The Vicroy prototype can float, foil on underwater wings, and fly in ground effect for a faster, smoother ride, aiming to provide sustainable coastal transportation. Other developments include the Harbour Air eBeaver, an electric conversion of a traditional seaplane, though it is not a "new" design.
Key features of the REGENT Seaglider:
- Float, Foil, and Fly:
The Seaglider operates in three modes: it floats on its hull, then rises on hydrofoils to glide above the water, and finally flies in ground effect.
- Electric Propulsion:
It uses electric motors for propulsion, making it a zero-emission aircraft.
- Capacity and Range:
The full-scale Viceroy prototype is designed to carry 12 passengers and has a projected range of 180 miles.
- Technological Advancement:
The design combines high-speed aircraft capability with the convenience of a boat, offering an alternative to ferries and traditional air travel.
- Sea Trials: The Viceroy prototype is currently undergoing sea trials in Rhode Island to test its systems before the first human-powered flights.
- Future of Coastal Travel: REGENT aims to commercialize seagliders for regional high-speed mobility.
- Harbour Air eBeaver: Harbour Air, a Canadian seaplane operator, has been working on an electric conversion of its De Havilland Beaver seaplane, representing the conversion of existing aircraft to electric power.