World’s fastest private ‘underwater supercar’: Dutch firm launches mini-sub with 11.5 mph speed

Dutch engineers build a 10-knot “underwater supercar” that glides using hydrodynamic lift and dives to 300 meters. 

Dutch submersible maker, U-Boat Worx, has unveiled its new “underwater supercar” mini-sub called the Super Sub. Reportedly the fastest ever made, the mini submersible is capable of speeds of roughly ten knots (11.5 mph/18/5 kph). 

The sub can carry three people in total (1 pilot and two passengers) and is capable of reaching depths of 984 feet (300 meters). This may not seem too deep, but most marine life tends to live within the first 656 feet (200 meters) or so of a water column

Designed primarily as a luxury underwater “sports car,” the Super Sub could be yours for as little as $5.75 million (£4.3 million).To this end, the submersible will likely be used for luxury underwater tourism or the plaything of the superrich. Of course, it needs to complete sea trials and receive authorization for commercial sale first. 

World’s fastest mini-sub 
According to reports, the submersible is able to ascend and descend in the water column at angles up to 45 degrees. This gives it near-unparalleled maneuverability for its size, meaning navigating complex underwater environments should be a breeze. “The SHARC Controller integrates seamlessly with the Super Sub’s hydrofoils and thrusters, offering unmatched precision and agility.

This intelligent system enables guests to enjoy a dynamic, responsive dive — making every movement smooth, safe, and exhilarating,” U-Boat Worx explains on its website.

The sub measures around 12 feet (6.5 meters) long by 6 feet (3.27 meters) wide, and is powered by a 62 kWh battery. This gives it enough juice to explore the depths for up to 8 hours or so.Passengers are able to get a near-360-degree unobstructed view of the depths thanks to the sub’s acrylic bubble cockpit. “This ensures a fully panoramic view in every direction, allowing passengers to feel truly connected to the underwater world,” the company explains.

Propulsion is provided by a set of four 25 kW and two 6 kW motors. The submersible comes with a 96-life support safety feature, a safety buoy, and Maximum Depth Protection.This latter feature is an automated system that puts in a “hard stop” baseline to prevent the sub from going too deep. The sub also comes with sonar terrain scanning and has a tested pressure hull. 

Exploring the depths in style 
As for its speed, 10 knots may not sound very fast, but for submersibles, that is very hasty indeed. To put it into perspective, most small subs typically max out at 4 knots, with research subs usually capable of 1 to 3 knots max. So 9 knots is not to be sniffed at.

According to U-Boat Worx, the submersible is designed to “fly” underwater rather than just float and be pushed along using thrusters. To this end, its design incorporates “wings” and has an optimized hydrodynamic design. “The Super Sub is equipped with cutting-edge hydrofoils that direct thrust with extreme efficiency

Positioned at the rear, these fins allow the sub to bank, turn, and dive with extraordinary fluidity, redefining how a super sub handles beneath the surface,” U-Boat Worx adds.This, the company explains, provides the Super Sub with smoother movement and faster travel. It also provides better manoeuvring, which all translates to having more fun.

The Super Sub is currently undergoing trials in Curaçao, an island situated north of Venezuela. U-Boat Worx has confirmed that final preparations for a handover to its first owner are now underway, with delivery due within weeks.

Source : interestingengineering    Christopher McFadden