A partnership of excellence dedicated to enhancing the performance of offshore racing yachts
An R&D partnership born of a shared passion for innovation
Located in the heart of Sailing Valley, UBSIDE—a member organization of Carnot MICA—has been supporting AVEL Robotics for several years in the development of cutting-edge technologies for offshore racing. This innovative startup, based in Lorient, specializes in the manufacture of high-performance composite parts, particularly the foils used on racing boats.
Since AVEL Robotics was founded, the teams at UBSIDE have contributed their scientific and technical expertise to optimize the design, strength, and hydrodynamic performance of these components, which are essential to the boats’ speed. This partnership is rooted in a shared commitment: to push the boundaries of technology so that skippers can achieve ever-higher performance levels.
It is within this context of continuous innovation that a special bond has formed with Luc Talbourdet, CEO of AVEL Robotics, and co-leader—alongside renowned skipper Jean-Pierre Dick—of the Absolute Dreamer offshore racing team. Both share a common vision: performance arises from the convergence of passion, commitment, and advanced research.
When research meets the world of ocean racing
Over the years, this scientific collaboration has evolved into a true human adventure. The exchanges between the teams at UBSIDE and AVEL Robotics have led to the development of custom solutions, tested under extreme conditions and tailored to the unique demands of offshore racing.
Last July, this relationship was highlighted in a particularly memorable way: Luc Talbourdet and Jean-Pierre Dick gave a joint presentation to guests at Carnot MICA during the institute’s 10th-anniversary celebration. Their presentation traced their careers, their challenges, and above all their deep conviction: to stay at the forefront, it is essential to work with public R&D partners capable of bringing rigor, innovation, and creativity.
The testimony of these two sailing enthusiasts highlighted the added value of the Carnot model, which facilitates collaborations between manufacturers and laboratories/technical centers to accelerate innovation. Thanks to these synergies, AVEL Robotics is improving its processes, optimizing its composite parts, and strengthening its competitiveness, while research teams benefit from a concrete and stimulating testing ground.
A prime example of the vitality of Carnot MICA
This story perfectly illustrates the mission of Carnot MICA: to support companies in developing innovative and high-performance solutions by leveraging the scientific expertise of its member organizations.
The partnership between UBSIDE, AVEL Robotics, and the Absolute Dreamer team demonstrates the power of collaborations that bring together research, industry, and elite sports. A remarkable success that symbolizes the alliance between passion, technology, and performance, serving both ocean racing and French innovation.
