UAE firm in limelight for ‘green’ watercraft

UAE-based JetPad is courting massive global interest after unveiling a zero noise and emission-free personal watercraft (PWC) at the Dubai International Boat Show. A total of 18 distributors - including influential big-hitters from across the Middle East, the USA and Australia - have expressed admiration for the unique concept, which is set to bypass all existing safety and environmental restrictions and offer a much-needed outlet for fast, environmentally benign watersports action. JetPad, which is set to begin manufacturing operations in Al Quoz, Dubai, in May, also generated over 300 sales leads during the course of the Boat Show. There has also been significant interest from hoteliers keen bolster their revenue-generating watersports offerings without compromising the enjoyment of beachgoers or adversely impacting on the environment. “As a UAE company, we are incredibly proud to be winning plaudits from across the world,” said Alexander Schellnast, chairman, JetPad. “The stage is now set for us to evolve into a genuine business success-story for this amazing country – a guilt-free alternative to PWCs that elegantly sidesteps traditional gripes like questionable safety records, oil-spills and ear-splitting noise to offer sheer, unadulterated fun for all the family.” JetPad’s design centers around a lithium ion battery-powered technology that results in zero emissions and a virtually noise-free experience. Light enough to be lifted by two people, the versatile PWC is easily transported or carried on a yacht, and capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 km per hour. It has a runtime of 60 minutes at full-throttle, charges in just 30 minutes, requires minimal maintenance, and comes with a controlled speed limiter, as well as navigation and on-board entertainment systems. One of JetPad’s most eye-catching innovations is a programmable ‘geo-fencing’ system – a GPS-driven world-first that controls craft behavior within designated areas. If a speed limit is surpassed or a boundary breached, the JetPad will slow down to idle-mode. Other safety features include the use of RFID bracelets to ensure the craft is only operated by designated users and a 100 per cent flip-proof design. Initially launching with the ‘Go-Kart’ edition, JetPad also plans to introduce the ‘Explorer’, which will appeal to budding marine biologists and oceanographers with its steering-wheel controlled fish-eye camera, and a rescue edition for hard to reach areas requiring rapid response. All JetPads will be manufactured in the UAE using top quality Conformité Européenne (CE)-approved components on an ISO-certified assembly line. While JetPad initially pitched at the leisure market, interested individuals can order units online now.