Regent moves to systems integration of full-scale seaglider prototype
October 2, 2024
All-electric seaglider developer Regent has begun hardware and systems integration of its full-scale seaglider prototype, which is set to begin piloted sea trials later this year.
“We’re moving more quickly than any other advanced electric mobility platform to create the world’s first passenger-carrying seaglider,” said Regent co-founder and CEO, Billy Thalheimer, Regent co-founder and CEO. “We’ve proven seagliders can successfully float, foil and fly – the integration phase is a major moment that brings us closer to experiencing float, foil and fly firsthand”.
Over the next few months, Regent will be assembling major structural components and installing critical onboard systems (including motors, batteries, electronics, mechanical systems and vehicle control software) to its Viceroy prototype.
Since unveiling the full-scale mockup design in April 2023, Regent has been developing and testing the seaglider subsystems in both physical and simulated tests; embracing digital twin technology to simulate real-world testing. The first full-scale prototype will aim to verify these findings on the water, with the first manned sea trials to start in the coming months.
Having recently received US Coast Guard Approval to conduct test operations at Narragansett Bay and Rhode Island Sound, the Viceroy craft will be tested in three modes: floating in the dock and in speed-restricted waterways, travelling as a hydrofoil, and ‘flying’ over the water in ground effect (within one wingspan of the surface of the water). “I’m looking forward to getting onboard myself!” concluded Thalheimer.
