The process of designing a boat that is not much like anything that proceeds it, takes degree of imagination that the new software in 3D development makes much more accessible an engaging.
The general layout drawings ( in many editions) were evolved in a 2D format, but the real job of making it all come together, in a three dimensional form, is where the real design sculpting starts. From a cardboard model, to a 2D plan, then on into 3D plan, the naval architectural process is candy for those with hungry imagination. Next, from 3D, we move to the hard-nosed hydrodynamic and engineering work that will test our efficiency concepts across new software platforms. This next phase will spit out the loads, that the engines will be up against. 
From this, engines performance can be specified, and the also, the slower performance predictions for the boat under solar power alone can be predicted, and in another step, the performance prediction figured, when we add in fuel cell hydrogen power, and finally, under full throttle conditions, using diesel electric drivers, we can determine practical top speeds.
The odd fun exploration drifts in and out of the design process, such as the umbrella solar arrays mushrooming out of the current schemes, as we look at adding more photovoltaic cells on trampoline nets, and rows of wind generators…..all under consideration, both now and ahead.
As the naval architecture shapes up, the project manager is on the phone and net daily, scanning the world for the best in hydrogen manufacture, storage and fuel cell choice.
Its indeed a fascinating and engaging process.
