Sharing a collaborative vision for the future of boating, Frydenbø Marine and Pascal Tech are building a new electric day boat with global ambitions. Together, they are pooling their expertise, resources, and shared passion for the environment to launch Ripple Boats.
Frydenbø Marine is one of the largest boat producers in the Nordics with their own factory in Poland, covering brands such as Nordkapp, Sting, and Airborne boats, in addition to distributors for Zodiac. The Norwegian boat builder boasts a storied heritage, spanning generations and renowned for its expertise in the marine industry. With Frydenbø’s partnership, Ripple has guaranteed access to high quality manufacturing capacity, and can launch an asset light company at high speed and low investment cost.
Oslo-based Pascal Tech, on the other hand, is a fast-growing marine tech startup developing an energy-efficient solution for leisure boats based on an air cushion principle. Air is pumped between the hull and water, which significantly reduces the water resistance and thus extends range considerably without the need for complex technology such as hydrofoils. Pascal Tech recently raised an impressive €4.6 million (53MNOK) in a funding round led by Ocean Zero LLC.
Ripple Boats exists to make boating sustainable, whilst simultaneously putting fun at the centre of the experience. The brand will design and build the next-generation of long-range electric boats for the recreational market, incorporating the Pascal Tech innovative air cushion technology that extends range without compromising safety or usability.
The first model will be a 10m electric day cruiser, designed by award winning designer Thorup Design. The boats have been meticulously designed by the Norwegian studio to cater to a wide range of water-based activities that families and friends can enjoy. Spacious and configurable seating arrangements, user-friendly technology (automatic anchor handling, remote monitoring, over-the-air updates), and advanced safety features will ensure that the modern-day boater can relax on the water without worry. The whole ethos of the brand will be about creating a boating experience that is simple, easy and low maintenance.
Commenting on the launch of Ripple Boats, CEO Stian Gulla said, “I'm very excited to announce the launch of Ripple! What's truly unique about us in the startup scene is our ability to combine innovative, range enhancing technology from Pascal with the extensive industry experience and manufacturing assets of Frydenbø, enabling us to quickly bring a unique and high quality electric boat to market. Over the coming years we aim to build a series of models in the 6-11 metre range, with a focus on international sales and not just in our "home market" of Scandinavia. The leisure boat industry and electrification is at an inflection point. Consumer sentiment is changing, battery costs are coming down and investment in the space is growing rapidly, both from established players and startups. Ripple brings the combination of an innovative and fast-paced startup with the reliability and quality of an experienced boat builder, and I'm thrilled to show what we can build.”
As the first electric boat brand born from the collaboration of an esteemed boat builder and an innovative startup, Ripple Boats represents the convergence of expertise, innovation, and environmental consciousness.
www.rippleboats.com
