Hydrogen Chase Boats Power a New Era at the America’s Cup

October 2024

GBV Hydrogen-Powered Foiling Chase Boat

Encouraged by the success of Chase Zero, GBV played a key role in supporting the development and deployment of five additional hydrogen-powered chase boats that featured prominently during the 37th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup in Barcelona in 2024. These advanced hydrogen foiling support vessels were used by Emirates Team New Zealand, Alinghi Red Bull Racing and INEOS Britannia, helping introduce zero-emission marine propulsion to one of the most prestigious and widely watched sporting events in the world.

The 37th America’s Cup, the oldest international sporting trophy and one of the most impactful sailing events globally, drew a massive global audience and brought together elite competitors from multiple nations. As part of this landmark edition, event organisers mandated the use of hydrogen chase boats, a first in Cup history, demonstrating a collective commitment to sustainability alongside cutting-edge performance.

Powered by hydrogen fuel cell systems that emit only water, these foiling vessels operated at high speeds around the race course, supporting racing and event operations while reducing environmental impact. The presence of multiple hydrogen craft at the Cup brought unprecedented global visibility to hydrogen marine technology and affirmed New Zealand’s leadership in clean-energy propulsion at the highest levels of competitive sport.