SEABOB: The World’s Fastest Underwater Scooter

What is the fastest underwater scooter?

Produced by Cayago AG in Stuttgart, Germany, the SEABOB is deemed the world’s fastest underwater sea scooter. To steer the device, you simply shift your body weight. The higher-end F5 S model weighs 35 kg and boats an impressive propulsive force of 680 newtons. It has six battery-operated speeds/power levels, can go up to 15 km (9.3 mph) underwater and 20 km (12.4 mph) on the surface, and has the capability to come to a complete stop by simply releasing the propulsion trigger.

Its predecessor, the F5 model, weighs 29 kg, has four power levels, an underwater speed of 11 km (6.8 mph), and a surface speed of 15 km (9.3 mph).

How does SEABOB work?

The high-performance electric-drive mechanism is specially developed with environmentally friendly technology. Its motor is a high-torque synchronized drive unit featuring a microprocessor-controlled 3-phrase sinus power management system. The power behind the drive mechanism and what helps the propulsion concept are highly efficient lithium-manganese accumulators.

Inside SEABOB is an E-Jet Power System that works according to water displacement. The water is sucked in by a rotating impeller and then forced out in the jet channel under high pressure. As a result, a thrust is developed that helps propel the device forward.

Pilots steer the underwater sea scooter via two intelligent Controlgrips with Piezo technology. The drive mechanism is activated by squeezing the trigger; applying light pressure to the green sensor accelerates it in continuous thrusts until the desired speed is reached. Propulsion is reduced by pressing the red sensor, thus slowing down the SEABOB. Two further Piezo buttons enable the pilot to program individual data including diving depth, operation time, and additional parameters.

Battery and depth

On both models, the battery lasts approximately an hour and each has a depth rating of 40 meters (131 feet). A Pilot belt system is also available in various sizes to help keep you strapped onto the SEABOB when cruising at high speeds.

Price

Priced at $8,336 for the F5 model and $11,455 for the F5 S model, so hopefully you’ve won the lottery to warrant the extra spending; the devices can be purchased here.

Sources: SEABOB and Deeper Blue