Paris continues its push toward greener urban transport. Mayor Anne Hidalgo has announced plans to trial a futuristic, zero-emissions water taxi on the Seine next year as part of efforts to reduce pollution and expand sustainable mobility options.
The vehicle, known as the Sea Bubble, is an egg-shaped craft designed to carry up to five passengers. Developed by French yacht enthusiast Alain Thébault and Swedish windsurfer Anders Bringdal, the Sea Bubble is scheduled for trials on the Seine in spring.
According to Thébault, the concept was inspired by a family conversation after a recent ocean voyage. He said his daughters urged him to create a zero-emission cab in response to the pollution they see in cities such as Paris, London and locations in the United States.
Built from lightweight materials like fiberglass and high-density foam, the Sea Bubble uses four submerged foils attached to its hulls to reduce drag. When underway, those foils lift the craft about two feet above the water, minimizing resistance. Solar panels supply its power, enabling the Sea Bubble to reach speeds up to approximately 18.5 mph. The estimated cost to produce a single unit is around $32,000, with passengers expected to pay per ride during commercial operations.
Trialing the Sea Bubble on the Seine aligns with wider Parisian initiatives to improve air quality and encourage low-emission transport. If successful, the Sea Bubble could offer a quiet, emissions-free alternative for short river crossings and scenic commutes, complementing existing river services while reducing reliance on fossil-fuel powered boats.
Design features such as the lightweight hull, foil-assisted lift and solar energy integration aim to balance efficiency, comfort and environmental performance. The craft’s small passenger capacity and electric propulsion make it particularly suited for short urban routes and tourist-oriented services, where frequent, low-emission trips can reduce traffic and pollution along city riverbanks.
As Paris prepares for the Sea Bubble trials, officials and developers will assess real-world performance, safety, integration with river traffic and passenger demand. Successful tests could lead to expanded trials, regulatory approval and eventual commercial deployment, representing another step in the city’s transition toward cleaner, more innovative transport solutions.