First UK showing of new Zodiac at Seawork
The FC470 EVO7 brings military quality to the commercial workboat market.
A versatile addition to the Zodiac range of inflatable boats will be shown in the UK for the first time at Seawork 2011.
Visitors to Stand A129 can view the Zodiac FC470 EVO7, featuring an inflatable floor which enables it to combine the performance and handling attributes of rigid deck boat with the easy-stow capability of a conventional inflatable. The new boat is already proving popular with emergency services that have been quick to spot the benefits of buying new boats that can do the job of two different types.
The Zodiac FC 470 is already well established with military users throughout the world but the introduction of a version with an inflatable floor significantly extends its capabilities. The boat’s unique hull shape enables it to carry heavy loads while retaining exceptional maneuverability. The new EVO 7 version features a high pressure inflatable floor reinforced by a puncture resistant Duratane sleeve. This makes the boat lighter, more comfortable, and can now be used with a 55 hp engine. Its hull shape has also been slightly modified to optimise performance.
With its HPP 70mm integral floor, the boat can be fully inflated from a single point and launched more quickly than was ever considered possible. It is also easier to maintain, as the new speed tube system is simply fastened using a cord and eyelets, which makes it possible to change a tube quickly and easily. The boat is consequently available for duty for much longer than other craft due to the reduction of down-time for maintenance.
The inflatable floor takes 30 kg from the boat’s weight and combines with a deeper V hull to improve performance and crew comfort. The ability to be powered by a 55 hp outboard engine gives it exceptional on the water performance.
As with previous participations at Seawork, the Zodiac presence will also include two other boats from the company’s substantial range of inflatables and RIBS. These will be available for viewing on the Seawork pontoon, from where they will provide on-water demonstrations throughout the show. This should give visitors an understanding of the design and performance factors behind the success of the Zodiac range.
The Zodiac presence at Seawork will be provided by the company’s MILPRO (Military and Professional) sector. This is part of the Zodiac Marine & Pool Group which operates in three divisions that provide a comprehensive service to their specialised markets. The Zodiac Military and Professional (MILPRO) division supplies inflatable and semi-rigid craft for professional users such as police, coast guard, special forces, anti-terrorism units, fire teams, the offshore industry and other military users.
The boats it manufactures range from 4. 7m to 12m long and are available in configurations with aluminium or fibreglass hull designs, inflatable or foam tubes, diesel inboard or petrol outboard engines.
The Zodiac SOLAS sector supplies life rafts for merchant ships, ferries, and cruise ships and complete rescue systems combining escape slides and rafts. The Zodiac Recreational sector manufactures inflatable and semi-rigid craft that are distributed under the Zodiac, Bombard and Avon brands.
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