In an era where sustainability is paramount, the partnership between KAUST, the G20 Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP), and the E1 electric motorboat racing series is setting an exciting precedent. Recognizing the intersection of motorsports and technology, KAUST has harnessed this dynamic relationship to champion sustainable aquatic mobility while addressing crucial environmental challenges. 

For two years, KAUST has collaborated with E1 to propel the development of electric motorboat technologies. With the advent of electric cars transforming urban landscapes globally, the marine sector still lags behind, lacking the necessary infrastructure for electric motorboats. Through innovations such as next-generation batteries and cutting-edge foiling designs, the KAUST-E1 alliance is spearheading advancements that lift boats above water, significantly reducing energy consumption and resistance. This revolutionary approach paves the way for greener boating experiences that promise to reshape our waterways.  

E1's dedication to marine ecosystem health, exemplified through its Blue Impact initiative, aligns seamlessly with KAUST's research endeavors. Under the leadership of KAUST's Ibn Shina Distinguished Professor Carlos Duarte, who serves as E1's Chief Scientist and CORDAP Executive Director, the collaborative mission is clear: enhance marine ecosystems worldwide for a sustainable future. 

E1 team visits to campus 

On Thursday, January 23, 2025, ahead of the race on the Jeddah Corniche that weekend, KAUST and CORDAP welcomed to campus distinguished guests, including HRH Prince Sultan Bin Fahad bin Salman Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation. As the federation prepared to host the E1 on Jeddah's Corniche, His Highness met with KAUST President Sir Edward Byrne before joining talks on KAUST's pioneering research in boat aerodynamics and coral restoration.  

Furthermore, CORDAP has reinforced its commitment to conserving coral ecosystems by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Westbrook Racing, the racing team led by Hollywood actor Will Smith. This collaboration merges CORDAP's scientific expertise with Westbrook's global advocacy efforts, increasing awareness of the challenges facing coral reefs and promoting cooperative solutions. 

E1 team owners like football legend Didier Drogba visited KAUST campus in 2024 and this year acclaimed DJ Steve Aoki joined the research talks and dived with researchers to see KAUST’s coral work up close. 

Panels and discussions at E1 

The ongoing momentum culminates in the upcoming panels at the E1 events, where KAUST scientists and leaders held three panels on pivotal strategies for marine sustainability and coral conservation. Sir Edward Byrne joined Professor Duarte on an important talk “Tomorrow is Today: Corals Under Crisis”, hosted by Anna Kebke, with Dr Shannon Klein (KAUST) and Dr Khaled Asfahani (SHAMS). The discussion highlighted the role of KAUST in advancing coral science and coral conservation with President Byrne noting "Great science can make a real difference". 

Another important panel centered a discussion on the KSA National Red Sea Sustainability Strategy. Hosted by Prof Carlos Duarte, it was honored to include HRH Prince Sultan, Sharif Abdel-Magid (Saudi Space Agency) and Dr Maryam Ficociello from Red Sea Global. 

In essence, the KAUST, CORDAP and E1 partnership exemplifies how innovative technology, sportsmanship and ecological stewardship can coalesce to forge pathways toward a sustainable future. Through these collaborative efforts, they are not only transforming the racing world but also championing the health of our oceans for generations to come.