University of Bologna Wins Monaco Energy Boat Challenge Amid Industry Innovation

The 12th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge showcased significant advancements in sustainable maritime technology, with Italian teams dominating the competition. The University of Bologna's Uniboat team won the Energy Class for the fourth time, excelling in speed, slalom, endurance, innovation, and design, highlighting their in-house developed counter-rotating traction motor and optimized propulsion system. The event brought together over a thousand students from 29 universities and major industry players, including support from the Prince Albert II Foundation and leading corporations, fostering collaboration to accelerate the maritime energy transition. Experts at the event discussed the future of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and methanol, emphasizing the need for infrastructure development and investment to support the sector’s shift to sustainable energy. A new AI autonomous boat class was introduced, reflecting growing interest in integrating artificial intelligence for autonomous navigation and operations. Overall, the Challenge underlined the importance of turning technological progress and intentions into actionable solutions to reduce the maritime industry's environmental impact.