Dec 30 2007
A group of talented designers, boatbuilders, and adventurers are planning an attempt on the world circumnavigation powerboat record. To be called the Earthrace. What makes this challenge remarkable is the boat will be fuelled by biodiesel, a fuel produced from renewable crops such as canola.
Circumnavigating the globe represents the pinnacle of powerboat challenges, and at 24,000 nautical miles, is also the world's longest race. The current record was set by British boat "Cable & Wireless" in 1998, when the diesel-powered craft covered the 24,382 nautical miles in just under 75 days. The Earthrace crew is aiming to smash this record by completing the voyage in less than 65 days. It will mark the first time in history that an official UIM Powerboat record will be held by a vessel using renewable fuel.
The Earthrace team aims to make the Earthrace the highest-profile powerboat project in the world. It will represent leading edge technology in all facets, including engines, composites, hull design and motors.
Prior to racing, the Earthrace team will conduct a world port tour, visiting over 50 locations around the globe.
"The world's current reliance on standard fossil fuels is unsustainable" says Earthrace CEO Pete Bethune. "It will take leadership, and vision from forward-looking companies and individuals to develop and promote cleaner, more sustainable alternatives."