Cambridge students gear up for another season of electric boat innovation with support from igus

A team of engineering students from the University of Cambridge is once again preparing to compete in the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (MEBC), continuing their mission to design and build a cutting-edge, all-electric catamaran racer.

Known as Riviera Racing, the team made significant strides in the 2025 season with their newly developed vessel, Aurora. After a challenging debut the previous year, the students focused on creating a boat that was more robust, modular, and performance-driven. Their efforts paid off, with Aurora placing in the top 10 at MEBC 2025, including 8th in the speed trials and 9th in the slalom, reaching a top speed of 14.3 knots.

The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge featuring a team of engineering students from the University of Cambridge / Picture: igus

Throughout the build, igus played a key role by supplying lightweight, lubrication-free components that helped the team optimise performance. Used in the rope-pulley steering system, these plain bearings enabled responsive handling while reducing weight. Additionally, igus parts in the motor mounting system ensured smooth operation even in the most challenging marine conditions.

With the 2025–26 build cycle now underway, Riviera Racing is once again working with igus to push the boundaries of electric marine mobility. The upcoming Southampton International Boat Show presents a timely opportunity to share this story of student-led innovation and collaborative engineering.