Gustave Zede

French inventor

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Gustave Zédé was a French naval engineer who played a significant role in the development of early submarines. He launched the Gymnote in 1888, an electric-powered submarine that was highly maneuverable but prone to losing control during dives. Zédé collaborated with the French navy on several submarine designs. His work contributed to the advancements in submarine technology during the late 19th century, a period of intensive development for these underwater vessels.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

submarine
Toward diesel-electric power
In France, Gustave Zédé launched the Gymnote in 1888; it, too, was propelled by an electric motor and was extremely maneuverable but tended to go out of control when it dived.
Read More
In France, Gustave Zédé launched the Gymnote in 1888; it, too, was propelled by an electric motor and was extremely maneuverable but tended to go out of control when it dived.
Read More