The German supplier of 48-volt high-performance drives, Molabo GmbH, announces a new partnership with the Finnish shipyard Kewatec. Together they have developed a state-of-the-art fire-fighting and rescue boat, which has now been successfully delivered to the fire brigade of the city of Kiel. This boat, which is intended for operations in the Kiel Canal, the Kiel Fjord and up to 10 nautical miles off the German coast, combines state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion technology with powerful electric motors and conventional combustion engines.
The new lifeboat, Rescue 1500, is based on Kewatec's e-FiFi 1470 design and utilises a hybrid water jet propulsion solution. Molabo's Aries i50 electric motors are at the heart of the drive. The 48-volt technology can offer particular advantages in terms of safety and efficiency. This combination enables a reliable, powerful and yet more environmentally friendly platform for a wide range of firefighting applications - from firefighting and rescue operations to disaster control.
Innovative 48-volt technology for maximum safety and efficiency
Molabo's decision to use a 48-volt system is unique in high-performance drive technology. Unlike conventional high-voltage electric drives, the 48-volt system is safe to touch and reduces the risk to the crew and rescue workers. As the system also requires no special safety training for installation, maintenance or repair, it facilitates use and minimises operating costs at the same time.
Rescuers benefit from this technology, especially in emergency situations, as it protects the emergency services and simplifies operations. In addition, the choice of a water jet propulsion system - the Doen DJ172-HE system - minimises the risk of injuries that could be caused by conventional propellers and is therefore particularly suitable for rescue operations.
When is which mode used?
Another advantage of the Rescue 1500 is the hybrid drive, which offers three operating modes: Diesel, electric and boost. The electric mode enables emission-free and virtually silent operation, which is ideal for search and rescue operations where engine noise and vibrations could affect communication and navigation. This mode is typically used for shorter, precise operations in coastal or harbour areas where discretion and low environmental impact are required.
Diesel mode is used for long distances and harsh weather conditions and ensures that the fire brigade can operate reliably even in demanding conditions.
In boost mode, diesel and electric motors are used simultaneously, which enables a significant increase in speed and shortens reaction times in an emergency. The combined power of both drives allows the maximum speed to be increased by up to 3.5 knots and therefore offers valuable flexibility.
Optimum performance and sustainability
The Rescue 1500 was designed to maintain a speed of six knots for up to two hours in electric mode, which meets the requirements of the fire brigade for rescue operations. Molabo's powerful technology has even exceeded this requirement and allows a maximum speed of 6.8 knots in electric-only mode.
Sustainable mobility and pioneering technology
The environmentally friendly hybrid solution shows how cost-effectiveness and sustainability can be sensibly combined. The reduced CO₂ emissions, lower fuel consumption and reduced maintenance costs help to keep long-term operating costs low while contributing to environmental protection.
Technical data of the Rescue 1500
- LengthOverall length 16.05 m, hull length 14.67 m, waterline length 13.4 m
- Width: 4,79 m
- Displacement23.9 tonnes (light) to 25.5 tonnes (fully loaded)
- Drive systemTwo Doen DJ172-HE jet drives with axial 432 mm superstructure and hybrid PTI
- Diesel enginesTwo Volvo D13-700 delivering 515 kW at 2250 rpm
- GearboxZF 325-1 with a transmission ratio of 1.459:1
- Electric motorsTwo Molabo Aries i50 with a rated output of 50 kW at 4350-6500 rpm, designed for 35 kW at 3050-6500 rpm
- Maximum speed31.3 knots (diesel mode), 33.5 knots (boost mode), 6.8 knots (purely electric)
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
