
Issue #: 201
Published: May / June 2025
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Anyone who was thinking that Gilles Reigner was a bit of a dreamer or an overly idealistic businessman after his short-lived collaboration with Catathai will be proven wrong: the Doctor of Physics based in Hua Hin, Thailand, is launching his first GR63, a 100% electric powercat that is innovative to say the least, with its imposing vertical wind turbines.
Convinced that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously on two hulls, Gilles was keen to ensure that his GR63 was as Forever Green as possible, starting with a construction system developed with the help of naval architect Alexandre Fortabat, which uses a high-performance composite of basalt and aramid fibers.
To develop a powercat that is fully energy self-sufficient, Gilles approached Ricky Cole, technical director at ePropulsion. Together, they patiently studied the various options available before settling on a combination of two-110 kW electric motors, a 284-kWh LiFePO₄ battery bank, 12 kWp of high-performance solar panels (supplemented by transparent glazing and sunshades that also generate energy), two vertical-axis wind generators with a combined power output of 10 kW, and finally, methanol fuel cells capable of providing 2 × 15 kW of clean, silent backup power.
“One of the GR63's key innovations is its AI-based energy management system (EMS), an intelligent control platform that continuously monitors, predicts, and optimizes energy flows throughout the vessel in real time,” explains Gilles. “The system balances solar, wind, battery, and fuel cell inputs based on environmental conditions and energy demand. Adaptive load prioritization ensures that domestic systems, propulsion, and HVAC systems run smoothly while optimizing energy efficiency. Predictive algorithms dynamically adjust energy consumption to preserve autonomy, even in changing weather conditions or when on long passages”. “This project has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in marine electrics,” continues Ricky Cole. “The GR63’s electrical system sets new standards. Not only in terms of integration and range, but also in its ability to deliver real-world performance for long-distance, zero-emissions operation. This is what the future of yachting should look like, and we are proud to have helped make it a reality.”
Air conditioning is provided by a high-performance custom system that incorporates a quiet DC motor and titanium heat exchangers.
A dedicated hydroponic growing area completes the system. Passengers can enjoy a selection of fresh vegetables grown directly on board. This onboard garden not only offers unparalleled flavor and nutritional value, but also reflects the philosophy of this multihull, which is focused on a self-sufficient and low-impact life at sea.
Builder: GRE Yachting Co. Ltd
Architect: Fortabat Yacht Design
Design: Gilles Reigner
Length: 63’ (19.2 m)
Beam: 30’2” (9.2 m)
Draft: 5’1” (1.55 m)
Displacement: 57,300 lbs (26 t)
Motors: 2 x 110 kWh
Batteries: 284 kWp
Water: 264 US gal (1,000 l)
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