The past promised us a future filled with personal vehicles, and although it hasn't fully materialized yet, we are slowly getting there. Those with a good financial situation can purchase and maintain a boat, but how does a submarine sound? The Dutch company Ortega designs electric submarines for explorers, filmmakers, or scientists, and its latest variant, the Mk.1C, carries up to three people.
Many people consider space the last frontier, but then we find others who can't take their eyes off the sea. How many wonders await in its depths? What kinds of creatures and places remain out of human reach? The technical challenges are very significant, and each region presents its own difficulties. However, that won't stop our desire to explore. Now, let's go a little closer to the surface. Divers have a wide range of tools to improve their experience, including those 'scooters' with very interesting prices, but this time we come across something bigger…
The Ortega Mk.1C
This is an electric and open submarine for three people, the Mk.1C built by the people at Ortega. Why is it open? First, that decision simplifies the submarine's design, and second, it's much easier to abandon the ship (divers must be fully equipped). Its maximum speed is 16.7 kilometers per hour on the surface and 20.4 kilometers per hour submerged, with a maximum range of 148 kilometers. The Ortega Mk.1C is relatively compact, as it has a length of 6.5 meters and a width of just 1.15. Its structure is based on an old reconnaissance project developed by the British Navy during World War II, the 'Motorised Submersible Canoe' or 'Sleeping Beauty'.
Batteries and Propulsion
The propulsion system is divided into two electric motors powered by four proprietary Hancell 378i batteries. As its name indicates, each one has a total of 378 cells, 4.6 kWh, and 32 kilograms of weight. Unfortunately, the submarine's price has not been published, and interested parties will need to contact Ortega to get a solid figure. If it turns out to be too salty, the company also makes the Mk.1B, for two people.
