Marine tech firm Vision Marine Technologies has launched a technology partnership with Avikus, an HD Hyundai subsidiary specialising in intelligent navigation and operator-assist technology.
The companies are exploring how Avikus’s Neuboat capabilities can integrate with Vision Marine’s twin-motor E-Motion electric propulsion architecture. The Sterk 31E will be the first platform trialled, with the integration project targeted for display at IBEX 2026, from 6-8 October in Tampa, Florida.
Avikus Neuboat is an artificial intelligence-powered autonomous navigation and docking system for leisure boats.
Planned Neuboat functionality, which is still subject to successful integration and validation, includes object recognition, route planning, smart autopilot, adaptive cruise, collision-avoidance assistance and auto-docking assistance. The system uses camera- and LiDAR-based perception, object-recognition hardware, vessel-control interfaces and an integrated user display.
In a statement, Vision Marine says the project aims to ‘establish an integration framework connecting intelligent navigation, vessel controls and its high-voltage electric propulsion technology.’
The partnership is being developed on a non-exclusive basis. The companies currently have no formal written agreement or binding commitment, and the work is intended to continue beyond the initial integration and IBEX presentation.
Integration and validation
Avikus has provided its initial Neuboat operator-assist and auto-docking system for integration and validation on the Sterk 31E.
The companies’ engineering teams are working together on the project. Vision Marine says its engineers have carried out vessel-side engineering, system-interface development and integration work involving the Sterk 31E, its twin E-Motion propulsion architecture, helm controls and steering systems.
The companies are also developing an integration approach that could make Avikus technology available as an integrated option for other compatible twin-motor vessels. For future customer orders, Vision Marine says it would acquire the applicable Avikus system for integration, while each company would commercialise its respective technology.
Vision Marine says the project reflects its work to develop E-Motion beyond electric propulsion and towards a wider vessel technology architecture.
“E-Motion was designed to become more than an electric replacement for a conventional engine,” says Alexandre Mongeon, chief executive and co-founder of Vision Marine.
“Our objective is to build an integrated marine technology architecture connecting propulsion, controls, safety systems, and increasingly intelligent digital functionality.
“Working with Avikus brings specialised intelligent-navigation expertise from an HD Hyundai company to an operational twin E-Motion platform. The Sterk 31E gives our teams a real-world platform to integrate and validate these technologies together, while developing knowledge that could support future OEM applications.”
Neuboat Control is a level 2 operator-assist system. A qualified vessel operator must remain at the helm and retain responsibility for navigation and vessel operation at all times.
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