Conventional boats running on diesel and gasoline have been the primary mode of waterway transportation. But, not only are they expensive to operate and maintain but also pollute lakes and rivers by emitting heat, noise, odour, fuel and lubricant residue.
Unlike the conventional boats, solar boats are silent electrical boats, with clean engines and zero-emissions. They eliminate the shaking, rattling and the stench of fuel, associated with gas engines, the travellers can breathe deeply, relax, enjoy conversation and experience the pleasure of the ride
Solar boats do not require any costs for fuel and lubricants. Moreover, maintenance costs for the electric drive and the storage battery are low.
With numerous tourist destinations mushrooming around the world with leisurely boat outings, the need for an alternative to the fossil-fuelled boats had been recognized by TS long back. Through its intensive research TS has developed India’s first and Asia’s largest solar powered passenger boats named ‘SURYA’ and ‘SUNRIDER’ for commercial applications.
In 2008, TS launched its Solar Boat ‘SURYA’ with 25-Seater capacity as a commercially viable alternative to conventional ferry boats. It was included in the Limca Book of Records as the Largest Solar Boat in Asia.
In 2009, TS launched its Solar Boat ‘SUNRIDER’ with 10-seater capacity. It was included in the Limca Book of Records as Asia’s Fastest Solar Powered Passenger Boat. It won the InterSolar Award in 2015.
TS was awarded the International Boating Award (IBA) in 2009 for Responsible Tourism.