Draft:Barracuda (boat)

The Barracuda is a solar-powered boat currently in operation within Mumbai waters, situated in the Indian state of Maharashtra. This innovative vessel is the result of a collaborative effort between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Navalt Solar and Electric Boats. Its design and construction were meticulously carried out by Navalt, primarily at their Kochi headquarters and Navgathi Panavally Yard.

Technical features
The Barracuda boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 14 meters in length and 4.4 meters in width. Its surface is adorned with 30 square meters (320 sq ft) of solar panels, generating a capacity of 6 kW. These panels are seamlessly integrated with two electric motors, each rated at 50 kW, strategically positioned within the hulls. Remarkably, the vessel is equipped with 1500 kg of lithium-ion batteries distributed across its twin hulls, providing a combined storage capacity of 88 kWh. Thanks to its innovative catamaran hull design, the Barracuda can achieve speeds of up to 12.5 knots, a feature corroborated by assessments conducted by an Indian Register of Shipping surveyor.

Furthermore, the boat is outfitted with sophisticated remote monitoring capabilities, facilitating troubleshooting and real-time oversight from technical experts stationed at Navalt Solar and Electric Boats' server. This advanced system not only records all operational parameters but also enables remote adjustments and software updates, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency.

Safety features

 * Due to its catamaran configuration, the Barracuda enjoys enhanced stability compared to single-hulled vessels. This design feature enables the boat to comfortably accommodate up to 30 passengers while still adhering to the rigorous stability standards mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for sea-going ships.
 * The propulsion battery installed in the Barracuda has been granted approval by DNV Class, underscoring its adherence to stringent safety protocols. Such elevated standards are paramount in minimizing the risk of thermal runaway, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the vessel.
 * With battery monitoring operating at the level of individual cells, the Barracuda significantly mitigates risks associated with its power storage system. This meticulous monitoring approach ensures that potential issues are swiftly identified and addressed, thereby reducing overall risks to a minimum.
 * The Barracuda employs a multi-tiered safety warning system to enhance operational safety. The first level alerts operators when specific parameters are nearing their limits, prompting proactive measures. Subsequently, the second level signals when limits have been reached, necessitating a slowdown in operations to prevent potential hazards. Finally, the third level triggers a system shutdown to safeguard against any breaches of upper limits, thereby protecting critical components. These parameters encompass various factors such as cell and motor temperatures, ensuring comprehensive monitoring and protection mechanisms are in place.
 * The Barracuda is outfitted with two independent powertrains, providing both reliability and redundancy. Should a system fault occur in one powertrain, the other remains unaffected due to their electrical independence, ensuring continuous operation without compromise. This design feature not only enhances overall reliability but also guarantees sustained functionality in the face of potential issues. Moreover, the boat satisfies the rigorous safety requirements set by the Indian Register of Shipping, demonstrating its capability to maintain cruise speed even if one set of propulsion is shut down. This dual powertrain setup not only enhances safety but also ensures uninterrupted performance, making the Barracuda a formidable and resilient vessel in maritime operations.