SMD completes testing on first electric work class ROV

SMD, a subsea technology and services company, has reached a milestone with its electric work-class ROV, the SMD Quantum EV. Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) at DEEP Campus has been successfully completed

Purchased by Jan De Nul, a Luxembourg-based marine contractor, the first vehicle has been subjected to extensive endurance tests and will be integrated into Jan De Nul’s vessel, Fleeming Jenkin, ahead of commercial deployment in 2026

John McCann, business development manager at SMD, said, “We are thrilled to have completed SAT with the Quantum EV, in close collaboration with the team at Jan De Nul. Their operational expertise, coupled with our innovative design capabilities, has made for a strong and productive partnership. 

“Requirements for efficient, reliable, and sustainable subsea vehicles are more pressing than ever. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the offshore renewables sector, where ambitious global targets demand unwavering operational excellence across the supply chain.

“The Quantum EV is a powerful vehicle, capable of outperforming its competitors. Its superior endurance means it can remain underwater for long periods, withstanding adverse conditions to reduce operational downtime. This strength is paired with superior control and position-keeping for unparalleled precision.”

Jan Van de Velde, director newbuilding at Jan De Nul, said, “We are proud to be the first purchasers of SMD’s pioneering Quantum EV. The electrification of high-powered subsea systems such as this is the key to unlocking more efficient underwater operations.

“Following extensive testing, we are confident that this system will work reliably in the field, enabling us to support clients around the globe with their renewable energy projects. We look forward to installing this vehicle on our cutting-edge cable laying vessel, Fleeming Jenkin, next year."