Esprit de Velox, a large low-impact ocean exploration boat – Economy

In rooms and corridors sea ​​tech weekIn Brest, François Frey has shown his enthusiasm in recent days. This scientific and associational representative, with others, from La Rochelle, are implementing a research vessel project with a very low environmental impact at sea.

Esprit de Velox, that is its name, comes from the Responsible Research and Innovation Program “ocean lens”launched in 2015. “The goal is to expose ourselves for thirty years to what oceanography should be in relation to issues of transformation. It involves thinking about a new interdisciplinary platform,” he says.

Like an invitation to the air!

His enthusiasm is not neutral at a time when high fuel prices are being reflected in the postponement of French oceanographic missions, where three of the four naval vessels of the Tricolor Ocean Fleet will have to be replaced within ten years, where the ambitions shown by France in the conditions of ocean exploration will require support, as well as the opportunities that Provided by Tara O under the poleamong other initiatives.

At least 500 technicians and engineers from 40 companies in Europe and around the world are taking part in the appearance of this 70-meter, 1,000-ton vessel, constructed from recyclable composite materials, which will be propelled by two semi-rigid sails spread over two 55 masts bearing Optical films.

20-30 researchers on board from 2025-2026

“Obviously it takes energy to build it, but once we get to the water, hopefully in 2025-2026, we think of it as an island that can coexist with the energy you produce and store, an island without draining air and water, with as little noise as possible, an island that can receive 20 to 30 researchers, an island with a laboratory area of ​​450 square meters, a back deck of 400 square meters and 20-foot bins for loading equipment,” describes François Frey.

Also in the loop, through scientific cooperation, fifteen Ifremer laboratories and CNRS. We want to ensure that the pace of the flag is shorter. We will say: We are going to such areas for three years, under the Objectif Océan banner, in programs approved by our Scientific Council with the support of researchers from Ifremer and CNRS. There will be bids. The researchers will co-finance through their structures but we are not ruling out private money,” the founder of Esprit de Velox stated. The second option, is the opportunity to have observation periods for a set number of days, with the crew on board.

budget of 90 million euros

Meanwhile, a third of the €90 million budget has so far been provided, in the form of research and development contributions, by private sector partners. Preparations are underway to raise a donation of €5 million to complete funding for studies and tests that will last for 20 to 24 months before the boat is built at the yet to be selected shipyard. The sail will be symbolically subject to crowdfunding as the project will have the same educational virtues as the Objectif Océan approach.

For the Esprit de Velox winger, François Frye hopes to be French.