Autonomous systems development could be given a boost with a new high-speed technology demonstrator vessel currently nearing the end of a refit project.
From 2021, Ambex Ltd’s 50-knot British Venture Very Slender Vessel(VSV) demonstrator is expected to be available for commercial charter. The ex-military composite VSV features a unique wave piercing hull form that enables it to act as a stable test and trial platform, even while operating at top speed. The VSV is thought to be only the second of its type in non-military ownership.
As the VSV is prepared for sea trials in December, William Smith, director of Ambex, explained: “It’s quite rare for the industry to have access to a 50-knot trial platform.”
Range of applications
The VSV could be used for testing electronics, navigation systems, communications systems, and autonomous systems. It could also be used for high speed support and even yacht race chase boats.
“Ambex is in contact with a number of autonomous systems manufacturers to use the vessel as a potential test and trials platform,” said Mr Smith, but added no deals have been confirmed yet.
Complex refit
Ambex has spent around GB£250,000 on the refit. Already familiar with the vessel as it fitted its original systems, the company gutted these attachments, redesigned the engine room and replaced the original Seatek diesels with a pair of Caterpillar C7.1s, each pushing 507hp through ZF gearboxes to France Helices surface drives.
Ambex carried out all engineering work, including installation of the new drivetrain, electrics, hydraulics and fuel tanks, as well as fitting features such as a carbon fibre galley. The interior now includes six SHOXS shock-mitigation seats provided by Allsalt Maritime.
The initial work was carried out in Shoreham, West Sussex, then the vessel was moved to the Isle of Wight, where it was painted and bow teak decking was installed. Following this, the vessel moved to Hythe, Hampshire, where Ambex is renting space from Fairline to complete the engineering and fit-out ready for launch this month.
Core support
Navico and Allsalt Maritime are both supporting the project. Navico will use the VSV as the Simrad Technology Demonstrator boat during 2021, hosting key customers/prospects and using it for events.
Allsalt Maritime will use the VSV to demonstrate its SHOXS seats, while Ambex will use it for testing and R&D trialling their own products.
Based at Portsmouth Harbour, next to Ambex’s 16.5m aluminium monohull vessel for testing and trialling electronics, the VSV can be used globally and is transportable by sea and air.
British Venture will be on show at the Simrad stand during Seawork 2021, and present at Speed at Seawork.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
