When designing the propulsion system for the Nusantara Hydrowing wing-in-ground-effect (WIGE) vessel, we had to prioritize infrastructure accessibility—specifically regarding fuel. The fuel needed to be readily available even on the most remote islands across Indonesia’s archipelago of approximately 17,500 islands. The resulting design features a Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) system powered by Reformed Methanol Fuel Cells (RMFC). This allows the WIGE to be refueled with methanol—a widely available resource—while offering the hydrogen energy efficiency, quiet operation, and zero-emission benefits of an electric powertrain.
Our design treats aerodynamics and passenger comfort as a single, unified system. The silhouette is sleek, organic, and futuristic, communicating safety, speed, and environmental harmony.
Design Innovation Highlights
Distributed Propulsion (DEP) Silhouette: Instead of mounting bulky, loud turbofans on top of the fuselage, our design embeds a continuous array of compact electric fans along the inner wing. This creates a clean, streamlined wing profile while dramatically lowering exterior and interior noise.
The “Floating Cabin” Experience: Taking advantage of the smooth air cushion in ground effect, the interior is isolated from the hull via active vibration dampening. Passengers experience a turbulence-free ride that feels like a high-speed rail on water.
The Methanol Packaging Advantage: Unlike cryogenic hydrogen, which requires massive, spherical tanks that ruin aerodynamic shapes, liquid methanol fits into standard, low-profile marine fuel bladders embedded directly within the lower hull. This lowers the center of gravity and leaves the entire upper fuselage free for passengers.
Acoustic Sanctuary: Because the propulsion is fully electric and distributed, the harsh vibration of marine diesels and the high-pitched whine of jet engines are entirely eliminated. The cabin maintains an ultra-quiet decibel level equivalent to a luxury electric sedan.
The Indonesian archipelago is unique—truly one of a kind; nevertheless, if experienced engine developers from around the world have relevant expertise, we are open to collaboration.
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