Exploder A-Cat D3 2020 in detail (I)
Click images for slideshow and orig size. – Exploder D3 2020 A-Cat first impressions
When the DNA F1 was launched we labeled it the coolest sailboat ever built. This new Exploder D3 A-Cat might not have the fancy aero of the DNA but is loaded with latest development from the joint effort of Jakub Kopyowicz / Exploder yard and Gonzalo Redondo from D3 Applied Technologies.
Key players on this R&D are of course their Pro riders like Steve Brewin & Bundy in Australia and the Polish Armada with Jacek Noetzel, Tymek Bendyk & Kuba Suroviec as most notable names in the D3 squad.
The new D3 has a lower hull height coming from the previous D3, the dagger case is placed forward too from its predecessor. Some additional aero features are present, but main performance changes are the new main Foil and and rake / offset rudder system which allows you to set a differential winglet angle between both rudder blades.
The system function itself is not new in the A-Class , Bundy and others already had a custom one back 2018, but this one is a totally redesigned one and seems to be working smoothly.
Other notable changes for a production platform is the hidden mainsheet system, making for a super clean tramp. Along some undisclosed changes that you cannot see to bare eye.
On the foils a visible aspect is the top S which is in place to bypass the Class measurers to push the dagger while loading to force the tip to go out of 230cm width regulation… In our view a pretty far-fetched practice, as going for the books the tiller extension is outside 230 while sailing.
Either way, the S is there too to achieve maximum span (without the tip of the foil going out from 230cm while loading..) , and the lower part of this new mainfoil differs from the proven Z22 we have here mainly on a slimmer ellipse and additional draft.
On the rest, the control systems are nicely placed and you have lines for rotation arm, daggers rake, rudders rake and a dedicated differential rake one.
The platform looks and feels compact, hulls at first sight are tricky to identify from the previous version, looking closely you will notice the height diff and refined transitions between hulls & beams.
Quick first sail yesterday by Ian, Mehl wen out with his 2018/Z22 D3, few matchups , nothing conclusive, the new D3 has to be put up to detail in mainsheet / boom length and other tuneup systems for a first sail.
Ian reported rock solid downwind foiling, speed was good too.
R&D targets to improve upwind foiling, the As are still seeking the holy grail of the 100% air time.
More tests coming soon along additional pics and videos. We have 4 more to be launched soon. I will be sailing and testing one in some weeks as still recovering on the collar bone.
Below short clip of the Differential rake system, along a drone test (playing and learning to handle those yet)
