AFRICAN CATS Update - December 2009

Many of you may have noted that we changed our website design in 2009! Now we have the possibility to send our updates in the new format too.

Launch of FASTCAT 445 GREEN EMOTION
Our new demonstrator FASTCAT 445 GREEN EMOTION has been launched last week in Durban South Africa and will leave in the coming weeks for Capetown. Her maidentrip will be made by the beginning of next week and the testing may begin.

FASTCAT 445 GREEN EMOTION is the first sailing catamaran in the world that may sail without any use of fossil energy. She has been equipped with the revolutionary GREEN MOTION drive system and a lot more of innovative options.

GREEN EMOTION launched

FASTCAT 445 GREEN EMOTION propulsion and regeneration system consists of a dual set up:
  • GreenMotion Motogen with 4 bladed propellorElectric retractable outboard motogens* (2 x 9.6 KW) with over boost to 13 KW
  • 6 x 160 amp 25 volt Lithium batteries
  • LCD screen for amperage, volts, rpm and temperature
  • 1 x 144 to 24 volts 30 amps converter
  • 10 amps shore charger 230 ac -144 dc
  • 40 litre dual coil 220 ac water heater
  • Dual control head (Glendinning)
  • Plug and play wiring
  • Hydraulic actuators (2)
  • Electric hydraulic oil pump
  • Manual emergency oil pump
  • Oil Filter
  • LED indicators for up and down position
  • Switches up and down
  • 2 waterproof contacts with switches + keys
  • Electric hydraulic steering valves
  • 4 bladed high efficient propellers (2)
  • Basalt Fibre wing strud’s (2)
  • Hydraulic piping
  • Shaft anodes
The resistance while sailing is less with the motogens* retracted. The sailing speed increases because no sail drives, propellers, props shafts or shaft supports are in the flow of the water and the result is less use of the motogens* and reduction of energy consumption.

The motogens* are located closer to the centre of gravity making the yacht safer and more comfortable.

Folding or feathering props are not needed since they are lifted from the water when not in use. No fouling of props and they are reachable in up position for cleaning or removing a rope or bag.

Cooking is done electric to make the yacht complete fossil fuel free**.

* Motors/generators
** A backup diesel generator to pass the Doldrums for instance, is available.

More information? Please visit our website:
www.africancats.com

 

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