Regent to launch High-Speed Seagliders to transform coastal transportation in UAE

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Urban Transport News): In a landmark agreement between the US maritime transport company Regent and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, plans have been unveiled to manufacture high-speed seagliders in the UAE. This groundbreaking initiative aims to reshape coastal transportation, offering swift and efficient connectivity between key destinations.

Regent's cutting-edge seagliders, powered by electricity, will integrate seamlessly into the existing transportation network, with a focus on enhancing connectivity to vital locations such as Delma Island and Sir Bani Yas Island. These seagliders, exemplified by the development of Regent's passenger craft, Viceroy, are set to achieve speeds of up to 290 kilometers per hour, significantly reducing travel times along coastal routes.

The company's innovative approach, utilizing wing-in-ground effect technology, allows these seagliders to skim swiftly over the water's surface, offering a unique blend of speed and efficiency. With the successful testing of a quarter-scale model, Regent is now advancing towards the production of a full-scale 20-meter wingspan model, capable of accommodating 12 passengers and two crew members.

Billy Thalheimer, Co-founder and CEO of Regent, underscores the transformative potential of these seagliders, emphasizing a 50 percent reduction in operating costs compared to traditional modes of transportation. With substantial backing from industry leaders and investors, including Abu Dhabi's Strategic Development Funds and Neom Investment Fund, Regent is poised to revolutionize regional transport for coastal areas.

The establishment of manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi aligns with the emirate's vision for sustainable and innovative transportation solutions. By leveraging the expertise and resources available in the UAE, Regent aims to localize seaglider production, meeting the growing demand across the Middle East, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific regions.

Badr Al Olama, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, envisions a future where electric seagliders play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity and accessibility along coastal regions. With the support of strategic partners and stakeholders, Regent's endeavor represents a significant step towards realizing this vision, driving economic growth and job creation in the process.

As plans take shape, Regent's seagliders are set to redefine the concept of coastal transportation, offering unparalleled speed, efficiency, and sustainability. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Regent is poised to soar to new heights, shaping the future of transportation in the UAE and beyond.