Name: Valo Hyperfoil prototype @plugboats
Uploaded: 2023-05-27T08:17:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: The electric hydorofoiling Valo shows its stuff. Very impressive.

Valo Hyperfoil prototype

Plugboats 2023-05-27 | The electric hydorofoiling Valo shows its stuff. Very impressive.

Vita grows clean California fleet with 100% electric workboat at Berkeley Marina

Plugboats 2025-05-23 | Vita Power (plugboats.com/tag/vita) continues to expand their fleet of electric workboats in California with the purchase by Berekeley of a VITA Seal that will be used for everything from debris removal to emergency response.

The marina joins the City of Newport Beach near Los Angeles, the San Diego Yacht Club (SDYC) and West Point Harbor near Silicon Valley as pioneers in bringing zero emission workboats to the west coast of the U.S. Over on the other side of the country Vita is also part of a project that is electrifying vessels for an oyster farm in Maine.

Read “Maine oyster farm goes electric” (plugboats.com/maine-oyster-farming-goes-electric-workboats)

Like Newport Beach, Berkeley has taken delivery of the larger of Vita’s two electric workboats – the 7 metre Seal (23 feet). West Point opted for the 5.5 meter (18 foot) SeaDog and the San Diego Yacht Club took one of each. Both models are RIBs (Rigid Inflatatable Boats) and both have been designed for the sometimes unpredictable and often challenging duties required at marinas, ports and clubs.
The Seal has a cruising speed of 20 knots and a top speed of over 30 knots. The instant high torque and Vita’s proprietary controls make it a breeze for operators to execute manoeuvres in between pontoons, docks and the tight spaces of ports and marinas. They also deliver maximum towing and pushing force even at low revolutions per minute.
(plugboats.com/california-marina-100-per-cent-electric-workboat/vita-seal-seadog)

The situations in the various locations demonstrate the flexibility of the electric RIBs. In San Diego they are used for the club’s junior sailing program and regatta management activities and are a perfect match for the facility’s solar generation system.

In Newport the Seal is one of four boats used by the Harbor Department to execute general patrols and towing or assisting vessels that have broken away from moorings or are in other trouble. Both speed and low RPM power are important, as well as the fast DC charging capability that can fully ‘refuel’ the boat in less than an hour.

Located right within San Francisco Bay, Berkeley is one of California’s busiest marinas and the work there is somewhat different but no less taxing. It has a total capacity of 1,000 slips or tie-ups, accommodating vessels from 16 to 110 feet in length (5m to 30m).

Any of these electric workboats boats might be operating up to 10 hours per day, and Berkeley’s new Seal is already being put to the test —patrolling docks, towing vessels up to 60 feet (20m), removing floating debris, and responding to emergencies.

Interestingly – and surprisingly for many people – all of this is done without a high speed charger available. Sean Crothers, Waterfront Supervisor at Berkeley says “The Seal’s torquey, on-demand power is a definite asset, and even without a fast charger, battery use hasn’t been an issue. We have a lot of docks to cover, and an electric-powered boat is the best way to get around.”

The other benefits of a 100% electric workboat are zero carbon emissions, near silent operation and the absence of toxic fumes and fossil fuel spillages.

In the City of Newport Beach that benefits the working conditions of the boat operators and supports the Harbor Department’s mission to keep the harbour clean, safe and well-enjoyed. For yacht clubs and marinas these things are appreciated even more by the hundreds of slip owners and members who are there to relax and get away from the sounds and smells of every day life.

The icing on the cake is financial. Workboats in constant daily use burn a lot of fossil fuel and require frequent maintenance. Electric recharging is significantly cheaper than gas or diesel and electric boats require next to zero maintenance compared to ICE models. With the Seal and SeaDog it’s the savings that add up.

The adoption of the Seal by Berkeley highlights a growing shift in how harbours and marinas across the U.S. can operate more cleanly and efficiently. But it’s not just those locations that are using Vita’s electric boats.
Read ‘Fleet of Vita electric boats at Olympic sailing events’ (plugboats.com/vita-electric-boats-world-record-olympics-sailing)

Jeff Johnson, SDYC’s Waterfront Manager, served on one of the 19 Seal and SeaDogs supplied by Vita in its capacity as Sole Supplier of Electric boats to the 2024 Olympic Games sailing events and the 2024 International Star Class World Championship a week later.

Duties included shuttling event officials, towing competitors, safety patrols and setting marks and showcased the ability of the boats to perform multiple tasks for long days on the water, day in and day out.

New solid state marine battery gives boats range without weight

Plugboats 2025-05-22 | With an energy density of 245 watt hours per kilogram, a solid state marine battery from Italy’s Sealance (plugboats.com/tag/sealence) enables electric boats and ships to pack more electricity storage into less onboard weight and space.

Listen to this article as a podcast

A solid state battery uses a solid material as the electrolyte – the material that allows electric charge to flow from one electrode to another. Most electrolytes now are either liquid or gel. Solid state promises important advantages over those in three aspects: energy density, recharging speed and safety.

Lighter, faster, safer

Literally some of the best minds on the planet are working on ways to make huge leaps in all three areas, but that is easier said than done. So, the chemistry is advancing bit by bit, and the Sealence battery is a big step, not least because it is beyond the laboratory stage and is actually being commercially produced and can power vessels now.

Gravimetric energy density – the amount of electricity that can be stored in the weight – is more important for electric boats than for land vehicles because A: a boat needs to float and B: there is much more resistance to overcome with the hull of a boat moving through water than with a car on wheels moving through air.

The energy density of the Sealence battery is impressive because it measures the density of the entire battery pack. A quick lesson: when we talk about a battery in a toy or flashlight we are actually talking about a single battery cell.

Energy density measured for entire battery pack

A single cell doesn’t have much voltage, so with boats (and EVs), those battery cells are linked and fastened together to increase the voltage. First they are connected to make modules, then the modules are connected to make a battery pack. (plugboats.com/new-solid-state-marine-battery-range-without-weight/sealence-ss-battery-scale)

When you read or hear the words ‘energy density’, it is often referring to how many watt hours of electricity can be stored in a kilogram of individual, unlinked cells. But if you take into account all of the wires and compounds and protective casing that go into a battery pack to make it usable, the energy density goes down because the overall weight went up.

As you can see from the photo, Sealence took its entire battery pack and put it on a scale, with it weighing in at just under 306 kg. That battery pack holds 75 kiloWatt-hours of electricity, so the energy density of the working pack is 245 kWh/kg.

Sealence was actually founded by Italian entrepreneur William Gobbo in 2017 to develop the DeepSpeed electric hydrojet boat motor, which is now available in two models: 230 kW (313 hp) and 600 kW (815 hp).

Like many electric boat motor manufacturers, Gobbo and his team discovered that the real challenge with electric marine propulsion is not in the motors, but in the batteries.

(plugboats.com/new-solid-state-marine-battery-range-without-weight/davide-lusignagne) Davide Lusigagne

At the same time Gobbo was starting Sealence, a young Professor of Engineering at the University of Parma, Davide Lusignani, was creating a cluster of professors, researchers and engineers focused on electric mobility. It was called the eDriveLab and first concentrated on EVs and the auto manufacturers like Ferrari in Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’. The lab’s growing list of patents came to the attention of Gobbo.

In early 2020 Sealence and eDriveLab started working together on a range extender for large boats and later that year joined forces under the Sealence corporate umbrella.

Their initial marine battery, the SafeLi, focussed on safety, as the name suggests. It incorporated the next generation of an eDriveLAB cooling system where the individual cells are immersed in a liquid that maintains optimum temperature and also prevents fire spreading if one cell ignites from physical damage.

Solid state marine battery stores 66% more energy

At the same time that they were developing the SafeLi, the Sealence team was also working on a solid state battery with its advantages in charging speed, safety, and energy density. To give you an idea of the energy density advantage, the 240 Wh/kg that Sealence’s solid state battery can store is 66% more than SafeLi technology.

There are many companies working on solid state batteries in the EV world, but it was only a few days ago, on May 20, that BMW announced it had completed its first on-road tests using all-solid-state battery cells. Congratulations to Sealence for being ready to go now with a solid state marine battery that has been specifically designed and constructed for use on the water.

The increased energy density will make a big difference in range, especially for larger boats and commercial vessels. A work boat can be out on the water earning money 66% longer. An electric ferry can service a route that is 66% longer or make 66% more trips withou...

Electric bass boat from Kimple and ExploMar has 45mph (70 kph) top speed

Plugboats 2025-05-18 | Chinese electric outboard manufacturer ExploMar is joining forces with Kimple Boats on a high performance electric bass boat, the E498, that will use the ExploMar WAVE 70+ electric outboard (70 horsepower / 50 kiloWatts) with a 60 kWh battery pack.

Listen to this article as a podcast

Founded in 2021, ExploMar first came to attention in the electric boat world at the 2022 METSTRADE show when it displayed its highest powered outboard, the WAVE 300+ (300 hp / 220 kW). The company now has three models, with the the WAVE 150+ (110 kW) sitting between the 300+ and the WAVE 70+.

Last year two of the 300+ units were paired with an 11 metre (36 ft) RIB (rigid inflatable boat) that proceeded to hit speeds of of 38 knots (44 mph / 70 kmh) with 6 people aboard. That is now available as the WAVE 600 Twin.

Read about the Italian RIB with twin ExploMar 300+ (plugboats.com/waves-23-electric-boat-and-boating-news-july-2024/#explomar)

They also partnered with Tideman Boats of The Netherlands on a 9m / 30 ft workboat. Owner Bruno Tideman said “Their 125 kiloWatthour battery pack gives 20 hours at displacement speed and if we go on the plane we can use the boat for at least an hour. For this kind of workboat application that’s pretty good, running one hour at full throttle.”

(plugboats.com/electric-bass-boat-kimple-explomar-45mph-top-speed/explomar-wave-70) Schematic of ExploMar WAVE 70+ system used in electric bass boat

ExploMar’s newest partner is Kimple, the Taiwanese maker of aluminum bass, jon and general fishing boats. Kimples are available in over 50 countries and are widely recognized for the quality of build and the combination of strength, durability and light weight that aluminum provides. The E498 is the first electric option in their lineup of over 50 models.

Electric bass boat draws attention from pro anglers

Kimple introduced the 4.98 meter / 16 foot 4 inch boat at the 2025 Shanghai International Boat Show in March, where the well known brand immediately drew attention from fishing pros and recreational anglers alike for the electric outboard / bass boat combination.

The company says the 60 kWh battery pack is roughly equivalent to a 40L / 10 gal tank of gas, giving a range of 100 km / 60 miles at cruising speed. Bass boats also need to get to the fishing spots quickly, and the E498 has a tested top speed of 70 kmh (45 mph). Testing under real world mixed-speed conditions give a runtime of 5 to 8 hours and it can be charged in an hour using the fast charge option.

Kimple’s extensive sales network will make electric bass boating available in Europe, North and South America, Africa and Oceania. A full list of countries is at the bottom of this page. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price is €49,900.

(plugboats.com/electric-bass-boat-kimple-explomar-45mph-top-speed/explomar-kimple-3) Electric bass boat from Kimple and ExploMar on display at the Shanghai Boat Show

Expanding their vision for the future of of high performance electric fishing requires enthusiastic cooperation throughout the industry, so the companies have co-founded the High-Performance Electric Bass Chamber in China. The initiative will bring together partners across the entire supply chain to develop and scale electric fishing scenarios. It will also spearhead ongoing innovation, scenario development, and global outreach.

“As more fishing waters around the world prioritize sustainability, electrification has become an industry-wide consensus” said ExploMar Founder & CEO Alex Dong. “We aim to empower more anglers with the thrilling performance of high-powered electric bass boats.”

Kimple CEO Fan Tingxiang added that his company “will continue working with ExploMar to explore and apply a wider range of electric outboard systems across different fishing boat models—creating benchmark products for diverse waters and fishing needs, and leading the industry into a greener tomorrow.”

Kimple E498 with ExploMar WAVE 70+

Length LOA4.98 m / 16′ 4″ Beam1.85m / 6 ftMotor50 kW / 70 hpBattery60 kWhTop Speed70 kmh / 45 mphCruising Range100 km / 60 miCharge Time1 hr with fast charge optionMSRP€49.990

Explomar (https://www.explomar.com.cn/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton) Kimple (http://www.kimpleboats.co/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton)

Countries where E498 will be available:

Northern Europe: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland

Central Europe: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, Hungary

Southern Europe: Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Malta

Eastern Europe: Slovenia, Czechia, Lithuania, Latvia, Romania, Bulgaria, Estonia

Western Europe: France, Monaco, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg

Asia, Middle East: Turkiye, Kuwait, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Philipines, Singapore, Vietnam,

Africa: Kenya, South Africa,Congo, Zimbabwe

Americas: Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina

Oc...

World Yachting Summit highlights sustainability options

Plugboats 2025-05-13 | The first World Yachting Summit (WYS) took place April 15 – 17 in Monaco and I had the honour and pleasure of participating as Moderator for a number of sessions on improving sustainability in yachting.

Listen to this article as a podcast

The Summit, organized by Monaco Marina Management (M3) (m3monaco.com) , covered a variety of aspects of the yachting business, not just sustainability. There were sessions on the effects of global trade disruption, regulation changes, the effects of advanced technology and AI, tourism, chartering, changing markets, customers and business models.

The panellists, speakers and attendees covered a wide swath of the yacht and superyacht market, with deeply experienced experts in propulsion, design, construction, registry, chartering, brokering and more.

The panels and keynote speeches were all fascinating and extremely well thought out by the Summit’s Development and Content Manager, Laurent Perignon. I was obviously most focussed on the sustainability issues, and while I could attend all of the keynote presentations, I missed some other sessions because I was moderating panels at the same time.

World Yachting Summit focuses on above 12m (40ft)

The Summit focussed on yachts above 12 metres (40 feet), including superyachts of 48 meters (160 ft) and beyond. Those are challenging lengths and weight of boats for pure electric propulsion, so panel discussions covered the broader topics of reducing emissions and options for ways that these large vessels can use hybrid systems (some including electric, some not), as a way to work towards net zero emissions.

(plugboats.com/world-yachting-summit-sustainability-program/wys-alternate-fuels-panel) L- R: Nicolas Boulet, WISAMO; Tobias Kohl, mtu Rolls Royce; Nicola Pomi, Volvo Penta; Jeremie Lagarrigue, EODev

It was impressive how reducing emissions and adopting more sustainable practices in general is a topic that everyone realizes is important and immediate. As many pointed out, the people who own yachts purchase them largely because they enjoy everything that the water has to offer and so they want it to be protected as much as possible.

Two of the panels I moderated focussed on sustainability, one looking at materials and operations, the other looking at alternative fuels and propulsion energies. (The two others were on sailing and foiling yachts and the impact of the digital age and AI on yachting.)

The panel themed ‘What an alternative clean future may look like’ had the most participants and was the roundtable most focussed on direct ways that large yachts can reduce their carbon emissions and environmental impact.

Two sessions of panel

The session was split into two ‘sub-panels.’. One featured four energy and propulsion providers and the second was made up of the people and companies, such as yacht designers and naval architects, that apply those solutions.

Panel 1:

• Jérémie Lagarrigue, CEO of EODev

• Nicolas Boulet, CEO of WISAMO Michelin

• Nicola Pomi Vice President Yacht & Superyacht – Volvo Penta

• Tobias Kohl, Director Application Engineering Marine and Offshore – mtu Rolls Royce.

Panel 2:

• Rodi Basso, CEO and Co-Funder – E1 Championship Racing Series

• Patrick Ferri, Technology Project Manager – SBM Offshore

• Raymond Fagerli, Naval Architect and Hydrodynamicist, MacFarlane ShipDesign

• Espen Øino, Yacht Designer – Espen Øino International

• Dan Lenard, Designer, Stylist, Partner – Nuvolardi Lenard

There is a lot to cover here, so I will be writing two Plugboats articles, one on each of the sessions – with some other elements of the WYS woven in to provide a bigger picture.

Ship travelled around the world with zero emissions

EODev is the commercialization arm of the Energy Observer research vessel that sailed 68,000 nautical miles around the world without emitting one single carbon dioxide molecule or any other particulate.

Victorien Erussard, the driving force behind Energy Observer, was also at the Summit, as one of the Keynote speakers. He took the audience behind the scenes of their 7 year adventure as he gave personal insights into what inspired he and his crew to take on the mission and the challenges they faced circumnavigating the globe.

(plugboats.com/world-yachting-summit-sustainability-program/energy-observer-2)

He also gave an overview of the ship’s energy and propulsion system. The main reason the journey took 7 years is that the journey was broken into legs and after each they took time to absorb the learning and improve – and sometimes totally replace – the on-board systems. (Sailing from France to Japan during the midst of COVID didn’t help either!)

The 31m (102 ft) catamaran has two methods of propulsion and three energy source and storage systems. The prop...

All aboard for 2nd World Boating Day May 24

Plugboats 2025-05-11 | World Boating Day, a collective celebration of leisure boating launched last spring, is scheduled to return this May 24 with events planned at dozens of shipyards, marinas, yacht clubs, sailing schools, and other sites across 20 countries and three continents.

While the official day is May 25, it includes any event being held from May 18 to 25. The aim is to make the leisure boat and yachting industry more accessible and engaging by showcasing the people behind the scenes.

Listen to this article as a podcast

All boating and yachting events welcomed

The umbrella theme for the activities is the Superyacht Life Foundation’s concept, but the local events span every kind of watercraft and vessel. The Foundation invites any organization or business of any size involved with boating and yachting to register their event on the World Boating Day website where the public can see everything going on.

It could be something organized specifically for WBD or one already in your calendar. Getting your event registered and listed is free.

Click »» here to add your event (worldboatingday.com/participant/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) .

Click »» here for an up to date list of everything that is going on (worldboatingday.com/events/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) .

Some sample World Boating Day events

Australia

The Coral Sea Marina team near Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is launching their Better Boating Guide, a guide for greener recreational boating, at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show May 22 – 25: “Australia’s biggest celebration of lifestyles that are exotic and aquatic.”

USA In Florida, The Atlantic Marine Store is organizing a World Boating day on-water rendezvous and raft-up at the famous Haulover Sand Bar in Miami, Florida. In Fort Myers, MarineMax is having their annual Summer Dayaway with the MarineMax team leading a flotilla on an exciting journey to Redfish Pass for a day of boating, sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply relaxing with a cold drink in hand. And in New Smyrna Beach Mark The Boat Coach will have a four hour boat tour recanting the area’s colourful history intertwined with a murder mystery.

France

The European Committee for Professional Yachting (ECPY) is an association of yachting professionals that brings together all the industry’s activities (yacht brokers, central agents, yacht owners, shipyards, suppliers, insurers, craftsmen etc.) They are inviting children aged 3-5 years old on board superyachts at l’École du Port in France.

Turkiye

The Bilgin Sailing Club in Turkey is hosting a special World Boating Day Regatta.

Switzerland

Furniture Designer Eva Mechler is presenting a seminar in Zurich for other designers about the types of artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating on-board furniture.

Sweden

Shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen, who build everything from research vessels to arctic cruise ships, are having an introductory day and tour of the shipyard for new trainees, their parents, and siblings. Other shipyards with tours, open houses or other activites include Benetti, Oceanco, Royal Huisman and others.

Finland

World Boating Day coincides with the opening of the Naantali Boat Show, a collaborative effort between the entire Finnish boating industry and local stakeholders that marks the start of the boating season in the Archipelago Sea each spring.

USA

Rhode Island’s IYRS (School of Technology & Trades) is a non-profit, post-secondary marine trades and modern manufacturing school. It offers education & training programs for people with a passion for thinking and working through their hands, and is celebrating the graduation and launch of their Boatbuilding & Restoration students’ boats for the first time.

Italy In Tuscany and Castiglioncello, the second stage of the VELA Cup takes place on World Boating Day. The Cup series is a competition between boats of all sizes, open to everyone with a very simple formula: an easy and accessible sailing competition without the effort and bureaucracy that usually accompany regattas. It has more participants than any other sailing event in Italy. On WBC there will also be a presentation of the Sailor of the Year award, the Oscar of Italian sailing.

Antibes

Port Vauban will be running workshops for schoolchildren to meet professionals, find out about sustainable development initiatives in the port and discover the port in an educational and fun way. The Société des Régates d’Antibes is also organizing a day at sea for person with disabilities to offer a first contact with the sea to people who have difficulty accessing it.

Global

In an innovative global/local event, the Soundings Trade Only Media Group, Metstrade, British Marine, and Marine Industry News are launching the Global Women’s Walk 2025 to honour, support, and elevate the powerhouse women shaping the marine industry. From May 11–18, they invite you to walk 5Km (3.2 mi...

WaVeS #27 electric boats and boating news: May 8, 2025

Plugboats 2025-05-08 | Plugboats WAVES (Watts, Amps, Volts, Electrons) is a regular collection of electric boat and boating news items that we have written about before and are updating, or items we are going to write about but are waiting for more information / developments – or items that are just tidbits we think you might find interesting.

Here is WaVeS #27, with electric boat and boating news about:

1. Australia’s Surf Lifesavers looking at electric outboards.

2. Electric boats supporting the UK’s historic Boat Race

3. Launch of the world’s largest battery electric ship

4. First Polyboat Global Challenge Trophy awarded

5. Silent Yachts launches closed deck version of the SY62 3-Deck solar cat

6. Vessev hydrofoiling electric tour boat wins prestigious design award

Listen to WaVeS #27 as a podcast

Australia’s iconic Surf Lifesavers looking to use electric outboards.

(plugboats.com/waves-27-electric-boats-and-boating-news-may-8-2025/australian-inflatable-rescue-boat) The surf lifesavers who patrol Australia’s beaches have become such a national icon that they are celebrated in an exhibition at the National Museum of Australia. These volunteers have to fight ferocious surf and waves when called into action, so the boats they use – and the motors propelling them – are of vital import.

An Australian manufacturer of electric outboards, EClass Outboards, took its electric motor and battery combination to the Surf Lifesavers Association (SLSA) Innovation Day last November and after positive reviews, worked with their local Belambi Beach lifesaving crew for further R&D and on-water experience.

Further official tests were then taken on March 22nd, with Michael Bonnici, the Manager of the Coastal Safety SLSA, attending. The two Belambi SLSC crews conducted IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) proficiency tests with both the EClass Outboard and a 25HP 2-stroke Mercury engine as control. Tests included speeds over 100 meters (≈100 yards), mass rescue loads, surf handling, weed hazards and figure eights.

The Crews were very positive about the electric alternative and particularly remarked on the advantages of a quiet motor as they could talk normally and hear the radio easily. Minor improvements were identified through feedback and EClass is now working through them to have their electric propulsion a certified option for any crew Down Under.

Check out the YouTube video below to see the kind of surf this e-outboard had to tackle.

EClass Outboards website (https://eclassoutboards.com.au/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves)

Plugboats Marketplace: EClass Outboards and Repower kits (plugboats.com/search-listings/?q=Eclass&l=-1&c=315)

History made as electric boats support UK’s historic Boat Race

(plugboats.com/waves-27-electric-boats-and-boating-news-may-8-2025/the-boat-race) The Boat Race is a competition started in 1829 when the President of the Cambridge University Boat Club wrote to his compatriot at the University of Oxford with a challenge to “row a match at or near London, each in an eight-oared boat during the ensuing Easter vacation.”

Almost a century later, at this year’s competition, a couple of new boats appeared on the Championship course on London’s River Thames between Putney and Mortlake: three UK Electric marine companies – RS Electric Boats, RAD Propulsion and Zero Marine – joined forces to support the Race serving as chase boats.

The zero-emission RS Electric Pulse 63 RIBs with RAD 40 electric drive systems were deployed on race day with a crew that included skippers, umpires, and 247.tv live stream camera operators. They provided essential race support, escorting the competing teams and ensuring seamless event operations.

With the backing of the Port of London Authority, the introduction of electric vessels to the race sets a precedent for greater electrification on the Thames and represents a key milestone in the transition to cleaner waterways.

Paul Clarke, CEO of Zero Marine, who provide net zero marine services to clients in the construction and media industry, drove one of the Pulse 63 vessels on the day. He said “It is a privilege to support such an historic event. This is a great first step towards a more sustainable Boat Race and we hope more and more of the support boats will be electric in years to come.”

(PS: Cambridge beat Oxford in the Men’s Boat Race by 5.5 lengths in a race which sealed their six victory in seven years. Cambridge Women won their eighth title in a row, defeating Oxford by 2.5 lengths. theboatrace.org (theboatrace.org/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves) )

RAD Propulsion (radpropulsion.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves) RS Electric Boats (rselectricboats.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves) Zero Marine (https://www.zeromarine.co.uk/?utm_source=plugboat...

E1 electric speedboat series fills 2025 schedule, adds media partners with over 1 billion viewers

Plugboats 2025-05-06 | The E1 Series (plugboats.com/tag/e1) of electric speedboat racing has added two new races and relocated another to fill out the schedule for 2025, also adding new media partners that make the events available to over 1 billion potential viewers worldwide.

This is the second year of the Series, which was launched in January of 2024 featuring teams owned by high-profile celebrities like NFL GOAT Tom Brady, Hollywood actor Will Smith and tennis legend Rafael ‘Rafa’ Nadal.

All are aligned with E1’s purpose of accelerating the development and deployment of electrified marine mobility and supporting the regeneration of coastal environments.

Read: All past E1 Series races and news in Plugboats (plugboats.com/tag/e1)

Each event takes place over two days, with qualifying on Friday and the semi-finals and finals on Saturday. The event is unique in that each E1 team competes with one male and one female pilot and teams actively engage with local communities to promote efforts to regenerate the world’s oceans and aquatic ecosystems.

Listen to this article as a podcast

7 meter hydrofoiling electric speedboat

The pilots race in the 7 meter (23 ft) Racebird hydrofoiling speedboat designed by Sophi Horne and Seabird Technologies with 150kW (200 hp) electric motors from Mercury Racing that can power speeds of up to 50 knots (93 kmh / 58 mph).

Team Brady won the first Championship and the first races of season two year were won by the team of DJ Producer Steve Aoki in Jeddah, Saudi Arabi and Team Rafa in Doha, Qatar on February 22. Many are saying that the Doha race was the most exciting yet in the event’s brief but jam-packed history

The next races will take place in:

• Dubrovnik (NEW): June 13-14

• Lago Maggiore (RELOCATION): June 27-28

• Monaco: July 18-19

• Lagos (NEW): October 4-5

• Miami: November 7-8

On the broadcasting front, over 20 partnerships with media companies have been renewed or added to extend the reach of the Series to every continent except Antarctica. Additionally, in a multi-year, multi-territory agreement with DAZN, the world’s leading sports streaming service, 1.1 Billion devices will have access to the E1 excitement through live 90-minute programming.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: June 13 – 14

In June, E1 is set to bring its unique blend of excitement, glamour and sustainability to Croatia with the E1 Dubrovnik presented by Adriatic Luxury Hotels.

(plugboats.com/e1-electric-speedboat-2025-schedule-billion-viewers/dubrovnik)

Dubrovnik is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning location on the Adriatic Sea and its medieval Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls. Spectators will be able to watch all of the action from those walls, with the racecourse located between the Old City and Lokrum Island.

Alen Bošković, who leads the race’s organising committee along with Žarko Knego of the Croatia Powerboating Club, said: “Once the proud capital of the Republic of Ragusa—a maritime power and symbol of diplomacy and freedom—Dubrovnik has recently earned international fame as the real-life setting of King’s Landing in HBO’s global hit ‘Game of Thrones’. This makes it a city where historical and fantasy legends meet the future of innovation. Now, with the arrival of E1, Dubrovnik is writing a new chapter in its rich history—one of the homes of electric marine motorsport.”

Knego added that “This prestigious race is not just a sporting event, but also a powerful opportunity to showcase Croatia and its tourism offering while reinforcing the city’s status as a global destination.”

Lake Maggiore / Verbano: June 27 – 28

Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in Italy and the largest in southern Switzerland (known there as Lake Verbano), has a rich history in hydrofoil development, starting with Italian inventor Enrico Forlanini’s early experiments in 1906, and the first commercial passenger hydrofoil service which launched in 1953. June 27 and 28 will mark the latest chapter in this story of innovation, building on Forlanini’s legacy with the first E1 Lago Maggiore GP.

(plugboats.com/e1-electric-speedboat-2025-schedule-billion-viewers/lake-maggiore)

Since its inception E1 has been making waves in the Lombardy region, where the Racebirds are built. Crafted in large part by Italian suppliers, the championship is a source of pride for the region, showcasing its expertise, artistry and technological innovation.

“The E1 Lago Maggiore GP tells a fascinating story of history and innovation on water. We’re very excited to continue this narrative with our pioneering championship – bringing our electrifying brand of racing to a place of real natural beauty” said Rodi Basso, CEO & Co-founder of E1. “We feel a sense of deep connection, in a place entwined with the technical i...

Two new electric boats to ride on ‘cushion of air’ with energy efficient AirHull technology

Plugboats 2025-05-03 | Norwegian Startup Pascal Technologies has announced that two new electric vessels, the NABCREW Zero AirBlue 1240 and the Hugin DC, will both be integrating the company’s energy efficient AirHull technology.

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The AirHull technology brings three elements together to reduce energy consumption of a boat by as much as 50%.

• First, the hull has sort of a ridge around the outer rim that meets the water, creating a hollow cavity underneath the boat.

• Then a lift fan, positioned at the bow, pumps air into the cavity.

• Finally, a flap drops to seal the cavity at the stern, creating a pressurizedspace that lifts the boat 15 – 20 cm (6-8″) out of the water, reducing drag and energy consumption.

Airhull technology lifts hull out of the water

These images are taken from a video on the Pascal Technology wesbite (pascaltech.com/airhull) that does a good job of explaining the system.

(plugboats.com/two-new-electric-boats-efficient-airhull-technology/pascal-technology-how)

One of the keys for extending the range of an electric boat is reducing the energy needed for propulsion, and anything that reduces the wet area of the hull and the massive effect of water resistance and friction is beneficial.

The active hydrofoiling technology of companies like Candela (plugboats.com/tag/candela) , Artemis Technologies (plugboats.com/tag/artemis) , Vessev (plugboats.com/tag/vessev) and Edorado is one way to do that. Using highly effective but also complex technology, they lift the hull entirely out of the water.

Passive hydrofoiling, like that used in the DeAntonio E23, does not require special technology, it uses a stationary foil fastened between two catamaran hulls to raise the boat slightly out of the water.

Read: Chasing an America’s Cup Yacht in the De Antonion E23 (plugboats.com/americas-cup-yacht-de-antonio-e23-electric-boat)

The Pascal AirHull is somewhere in between, it allows the boat to ride on a cushion of air, so some of the hull is still in contact with the water at times, but less of it than in passive hydrofoiling.

The two new electric boats using the AirHull technology are quite different, and demonstrate the flexibility of the Pascal system. One is a heavy duty workboat built of aluminum, the other a classic wooden dayboat.

Two boats show flexibility of AirHull

The NABCREW Zero AirBlue 1240 is being built by Moen Marin AS, the world’s largest supplier of workboats for the aquaculture industry. They built the world’s largest hybrid electric fishing vessel in 2019 and now their entire line of vessels – from 12 to 39.5 metres (36 to 130 ft) – are powered with hybrid systems.

(plugboats.com/two-new-electric-boats-efficient-airhull-technology/moen-electric-workboat)

The Zero AirBlue 1240 is their first all-electric boat. It will be used to take crews to and from aquaculture sites, carrying up to eight passengers at a service speed of 20-25 knots (23-28 mph / 37-46 kph) with a range of up to 40 nautical miles (46 mi / 74 km).

With a battery capacity of 378 kWh and fast-charging compatibility, the vessel aims to meet the growing demand for sustainable service and aquaculture transport solutions. The NABCREW is specifically designed to operate year round in tough Nordic conditions.

Model for other commercial vessels

“There is a great potential for electrification of vessels in the aquaculture industry and the collaboration with Moen Marin is a great entry point” said Markus Tufte-Johnsen, CCO at Pascal. “We expect this model to be relevant for other commercial vessel markets as well.”

The Hugin DC, built by HCC Boatyard, is a 9.15 meter (30 ft) wooden boat of classic Nordic design named after the raven of Odin, king of the Nordic gods. According to legend, the bird flew out every morning and always returned to safe harbour. An eco-conscious leisure boat in the motor yacht and tender segment, it is tailored for calmer waters than what a workboat would need to endure.

(plugboats.com/two-new-electric-boats-efficient-airhull-technology/hugin)

HCC works with a number of electric propulsion manufacturers, including Oceanvolt and Vetus, and has selected twin electric motors from Rim Drive Technology for the Hugin. The 48V electric propulsion system will provide a cruising speed of 12 knots (14 mph / 22 kph). Where the AirHull technology comes in is enabling extended range and operational cost savings because of significantly reduced power consumption.

While official launch dates and showcase locations are still being finalized, the NABCREW is expected to be presented along the Norwegian coast in coordination with Moen Marin. The first deliveries of the Hugin are scheduled for later this year.

Pascal Technologies (pascaltech.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton) Hug...

Sunreef Yachts uses AI for next-gen solar panel hull material

Plugboats 2025-05-01 | Sunreef Yachts, which introduced its revolutionary Solar Skin solar panel hull material 2022 and improved it in 2024, has again boosted efficiency and performance with the launch of Solar Skin 3.0.

Listen to this article as a podcast:

Solar Skin 1.0 was a game changer, essentially making the entire boat an electricity generating solar panel by embedding photovoltaic cells right into the composite used to build a boat’s hull.

Solar Skin 2.0 took things to the next level, with a 24.8% efficiency rating for turning light energy into electrical energy. That’s equal to the efficiency of the highest rated home panels. It also had excellent thermal stability and overall durability.

Solar panel hull efficient, durable

The 2.0 version operates at temperatures above the boiling point of water – 100º C/ 212 º F –and is highly resistant to microcracking, successfully withstanding over 20,000 mechanical load cycle tests that simulate different physical forces and weather conditions.

Not only that, but each individual ‘panel’ was equipped with an RFID chip, making diagnostics and maintenance easier throughout the yacht’s lifespan.

(plugboats.com/sunreef-uses-ai-next-gen-solar-panel-hull-material/solar-skin-3-construction)

How smart can a solar panel hull be? Well, Solar Skin 3.0 takes it up another notch with new technologies that make for even more efficient and intelligent solar power generation.

One of the issues with solar panels on a boat is that the light conditions are always changing, unlike a house where the amount of shade and shading areas are constant and easily analyzed.

Each panel functions as a smart unit

Sunreef Yachts (plugboats.com/tag/sunreef) CTO Nicolas Lapp explains how Sunreef approached the challenge: “Using AI, machine learning algorithms and real-time data from Sunreef catamarans operating in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Dubai, we have developed a system where we are able to continuously refine panel placement and optimize energy yield. Each panel functions as a smart unit, dynamically adjusting its electrical output to mitigate shading effects from sails and superstructure, significantly boosting system efficiency, even during winter months.”

In the bimini areas, which are in shade most of the time, the new catamarans are now equipped with next-generation photovoltaic cells specifically optimized for shaded environments. All of this further enhances energy generation even under less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

(plugboats.com/sunreef-uses-ai-next-gen-solar-panel-hull-material/solar-skin-3-flybridge)

Sunreef actually started not as a boat builder, but as a company chartering catamarans in the Indian Ocean. Founder Francis Lapp (father of Nicolas) said “I realized I needed to build a yacht on my own, as the market didn’t offer what I needed. My boats had the advantage of being comfortable and family-friendly, but they lacked luxury.”

When he built his dreamboat – the world’s first luxury catamaran with a flybridge – he took it to the 2003 Monaco Yacht Show. When viewers and buyers saw the wide open spaces and design possibilities, the idea took off and these kinds of cats are now built by dozens of shipyards all over the world.

On the electric front, their Sunreef Eco line was first revealed in 2019 at the Cannes Yachting Festival with the launch of the Sunreef 60 Eco. It went on to win the Sailboats category of the Gustave Trouvé Electric Boat Awards in 2021 (plugboats.com/gustave-trouve-electric-boat-awards-winners-2021) and the company repeated with a win in 2022 (plugboats.com/gussies-electric-boats-awards-winners-2022) for the Sunreef 80 Eco.

Batteries also custom engineered

As CTO, Nicolas Lapp oversees research and development for the company. “There are three key elements of efficiency with electric yachts” he says. “The hydrodynamics of the boat, energy generation and energy storage. We want our Eco boats to be as efficient as possible in every regard, so we use custom-engineered batteries.”

The marine battery banks engineered for the Eco range can store 1 kiloWatthour of energy in 5.2 kilograms of lithium-ion, making them about 30% lighter than battery systems used in most yachts. That reduced weight lowers drag and means less energy is consumed for propulsion. Since the battery can hold equal energy in a smaller space, that also leaves more room in the hulls for living area.

“The lifespan of our batteries is also a priority” says Lapp. “Durable components are what make your boat sustainable, and after 10 years of use these batteries will still have 80 per cent of their original capacity.”

In February the company announced the unmoulding of the hull for their new 43 meter (140 ft) Sunreef 43 Eco. It will feature over 120 m² (≈1,300 sq ft) of integrated solar panels, contributing to a total of 250 m² (2,700 sq ft) across the breadth of the yacht.

Sunreef Yachts (h...

New JOOOL electric propulsion on 3 sailboats at La Grand Motte show

Plugboats 2025-04-29 | JOOOL is the name of a new turnkey hybrid and electric propulsion system for sailing yachts. It was developed and manufactured in France by the team behind Alternatives Energies, who have over 25 years of expertise in marine electrification.

Listen to this article as a podcast

The three boats with JOOOL at La Grand Motte International Multihull Show:

• Fountaine Pajot Aura 51: the largest non-flybridge sailing catamaran in the Fountaine Pajot range

• Leopard C46: one of Sail Magazine’s Top Ten Best Boats in 2025

• Yacht Concept Day One 80: A hybrid 80-foot day charter yacht sailing 100% electric in the protected Calanques region near Marseilles.

Smart electric propulsion and onboard system

Each vessel is equipped with JOOOL’s full onboard energy system with 25 kW (≈35 hp) electric hydrogenerating POD motors. At the core is the OneBox, a smart, compact energy management and conversion unit that integrates every onboard energy source and output: battery, solar, wind, hydrogeneration, gensets and shore power. It oversees and controls not only the propulsion system in real time, but also all energy use, with easy to read monitor interfaces.

(plugboats.com/new-joool-electric-propulsion-3-sailboats/jool-motor-one-box)

While the JOOOL name and branding is new, the system itself is not. It has been installed on over 100 vessels worldwide, from dayboats to long-range catamarans to electric ferries to the French Navy’s first battery-powered surface vessel.

Alternatives Energies was founded in 1997 after winning the European Solar Boat Challenge. They outfitted their first project the next year, a 100% electric passenger boat in La Rochelle.

Since then they acted as an integrator on dozens of projects, largely electric and solar passenger boats, all of which have proven their durability and the economies of electric propulsion.

Installed on over 100 vessels

The Bernard Palissy III (plugboats.com/record-15k-people-enjoy-french-electric-river-cruise) solar-electric sightseeing boat in France was launched in 2018 and carries about 15,000 people each summer on cruises along the Riviere Charente in Cognac. The Aditya solar electric ferry in Kerala, India carries about 580,000 people each year – a total of over 4.5 million since its inaugural voyage in 2017.

The Aditya was a winner of the first Gustave Trouvé International Electric Boat Awards in 2020 and the all-electric version of the Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 at La Grand Motte won the Electric Sailboats category in 2024 (plugboats.com/the-gussies-electric-boat-awards-winners-2024) .

Electric propulsion is becoming increasingly popular with sailors, probably because two of the reasons they prefer sailboats over power is the fresh, smoke-free air and the absence of motor noise. Two things that electric propulsion can provide if a motor does have to be turned on.

The JOOOL system adds to the range of motor options available for medium sized sailboats and for smaller daysailers there are plenty of electric outboards available.

It was only in 2021 that the Arcona 415 became the first sailing yacht to offer electric propulsion as standard. Others have followed, and the number of yachts with electric as an option is increasing by the month. One of the advantages of JOOOL for OEMs and shipyards is that the system is fully modular and pre-configured, offering a single-source solution. So, welcome, JOOOL to the electric club, nice to have you aboard!

See the Plugboats Buying Guides to Electric Motors:

Outboards (plugboats.com/electric-outboards-less-than-5-kw) Saildrives and Pods (plugboats.com/guide-to-electric-saildrive-pod-boat-motors) Inboards (plugboats.com/electric-inboard-boat-motors-guide-over-150-motors)

Fountaine Pajot (catamarans-fountaine-pajot.com/en/sailing-catamarans/catamaran-aura-51/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton) Leopard Catamarans (leopardcatamarans.com/catamarans/leopard-46?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton) Alternatives Energies (alternativesenergies.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton)

The post New JOOOL electric propulsion on 3 sailboats at La Grand Motte show (plugboats.com/new-joool-electric-propulsion-3-sailboats) appeared first on Plugboats (plugboats.com) .

UK’s Electric Seaway charging project completed for leisure and commercial e-boats

Plugboats 2025-04-28 | Aqua superPower and its consortium partners have announced the completion of The Electric Seaway project that delivers marine charging infrastructure along the south coast of the UK.

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The chargers are available to any electric leisure and commercial vessels under 24m (≈ 80 ft) and are part of the UK’s Maritime 2050 decarbonization targets. The system is projected to prevent significant CO2 emissions as an important step forward in reducing the environmental impact of marine activity along the south coast.

8 installations along UK south shore

The project was launched in June 2023 with £3.2 million ($4.29M / €3.72M) in funding from UK SHORE (UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions) and Innovate UK as the main delivery partner.

The consortium building the infrastructure was led by marine charging system provider Aqua superPower (plugboats.com/tag/aqua-superpower) along with technology company ZPN Energy. Other key partners include the University of Plymouth, South Hams District Council, Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch Council, and the UK Harbour Masters’ Association.

(plugboats.com/uk-electric-seaway-charging-project-complete-e-boats/the-electric-seaway-installatios)

There are eight charging installations: at MDL Ocean Village Marina in Southampton, Isle of Wight Trinity Landing, Fowy, Lymington, Chichester Itchenor, and Falmouth.

The project uses battery-backed ultra-rapid charging technology and renewable energy integration to overcome logistical challenges. The system has been specifically tailored for shoreside applications and is especially relevant for those areas that have grid connection limits.

Battery-backed chargers meet instant load demand

Battery-backed chargers are the same concept that enabled the Candela electric hydrofoiling speedboat to cover 420 nautical miles (485 mi / 780 km) in 24 hours. High speed chargers like those deployed in The Electric Seaway put instant load demands on the electric grid that is difficult for the cables and transformers of some older coastal areas to respond to. A large battery can meet those instant load demands, while being charged at a slower constant rate by the grid.

Read about Candela’s 485 mi / 780 km, 24 hour journey (plugboats.com/candela-c-8-electric-boat-range-record-420-miles)

With the wide variety of use cases and on-shore capabilities of the eight locations, it has been necessary for the consortium to develop systems that can be matched to just about any marine charging site situation in the future.

ZPN Energy has refined the processes for efficient site delivery, and Aqua superPower has introduced a new compatibility service, enhancing interoperability between charging systems and electric vessels. In addition, sensors installed at each charging site by the University of Plymouth gather data to analyze environmental impact.

Electric Seaway shaping future projects

These learnings are set to shape future projects and advance the transition to clean maritime solutions.

James Foster, CEO of ZPN Energy, said: “Our battery-backed charging technology has proven its value in overcoming infrastructure challenges, ensuring rapid charging even in areas with limited grid capacity. The project provided valuable learning around third party chargers, allowing access to a retrofit model.”

Capt Martin Willis AFNI, Executive Officer & Secretary of the UK Harbour Masters’ Association, added that the project: “aligns perfectly with our strategy to support sustainable maritime practices and alternative fuels.”

The Electric Seaway has had similar support and reaction from the local districts. South Hams District Council is engaging with its local marine industry and boat users to encourage the transition to electric propulsion and open up opportunities in the low-carbon marine sector. Bournemouth, Poole, and Christchurch Council (BCP), is using the project as a cornerstone for increasing electrification.

(plugboats.com/uk-electric-seaway-charging-project-complete-e-boats/aqua-charger-electric-seaway)

The completion of The Electric Seaway also builds on the legacy of the Marine eCharging Living Lab (MeLL) project, expanding the UK’s first marine charging network into a scalable model with global potential.

The initiative has not only delivered on its technical objectives but also fostered economic growth, supporting a burgeoning cluster of low-carbon marine businesses and creating new jobs.

UK electric boat and motor companies in the region of The Electric Seaway include RS Electric Boats (plugboats.com/tag/re-electric-boats) , RAD Propulsion (plugboats.com/tag/rad-propulsion) , Optima Yachts (plugboats.com/tag/optima) (a Winner in the 2024 Gussies Electric Boat Awards (plugboats.com/the-gussies-electric-boat-awards-winners-2024) ) and Marine Electrification Solutions (https://plugboats.com/t...

Barcelona loves new quiet, zero emission 84 passenger electric ferry

Plugboats 2025-04-24 | The air and water are getting cleaner in yet another city as Barcelona launches the Ecocat Tres electric ferry that will carry passengers from the popular Las Ramblas district to the almost as popular Barceloneta Beach.

Listen to this article as a podcast

While electric hydrofoiling ferries and water taxis from companies like Candela, Artemis Technologies and Vessev are making lots of headlines for new services in Stockholm, Seattle and Wellington, New Zealand, there are also thousands of routes in other cities all over the world that can benefit from electrifying traditional displacement hull boats.

In our most recent WaVeS #26 round-up of electric boat news we highlighted how electric displacement ferries are coming to Germany and the city of Toronto, Canada. In a related item, the city of Amsterdam has now banned fossil fuel leisure boats from its canals as of April 1.

Read more about electric ferries in WaVeS #26 – March 23, 2025 (plugboats.com/waves-26-electric-boats-boating-news-march-23-2025)

The Ecocat Tres is an interesting electric ferry case because it uses the low voltage safe-to-touch propulsion system of Molabo. That is the only company in the world that makes a 50 kiloWatt (65 hp) electric motor that runs on 48 volts. Every other system requires 96 volts or more for that level of power.

Low voltage safe-to-touch system

Why that matters is because anything above 48 volts requires special safety training for the people who install or service the motor. Molabo’s breakthrough patented technology is called ‘ISCAD’ (Intelligent Stator Cage Drive). Instead of the copper windings found in traditional motors, Molabo uses rods to form the stator cage – the stator being the stationary part of an electric motor.

The Ecocat Tres has twin Molabo ARIES 50 kW inboard drives in a system assembled by Azimut Marine. It incorporates 36 batteries with 216 kiloWatthours of total capacity, fast chargers, and solar panels that provide up to 40% of the electric ferry’s total energy usage.

(plugboats.com/barcelona-welcomes-new-84-passenger-electric-ferry/windings-iscad-motors-2)

While the passengers don’t particularly notice the system, what they do notice is that their ride is almost completely silent, has next to zero vibrations compared to boats with rumbling diesel engines, and no smoke. Absolutely zero emissions of noxious fumes, odours and carbon.

This new service is part of Bus Nàutic, an initiative backed by Port de Barcelona and operated by ALSA, a private company best known for a fleet of over 6,200 buses and a network of other transportation options covering all of Spain.

Operates for at least 12 hours each day

The 15-meter (50 foot) aluminum catamaran was designed by Naval Architecture Marine Engineering and built by the Metaltec Naval shipyard in northern Spain’s Cantabria district. It has seating on the main deck and also on the rooftop so passengers can enjoy the views of Barcelona.

(plugboats.com/barcelona-welcomes-new-84-passenger-electric-ferry/eoicat-tres-interior)

With a top speed of 12 knots (14 mph / 22 kmh) each trip takes about 10 minutes and has a 5 minute stop at the Drassanes and Llevant wharves. It operates for at least 12 hours every day, and at lower speeds can run for up to 21 hours on a single charge.

Electric ferry will save 90 tonnes of CO2

Las Ramblas is a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard that stretches 1.2 kilometres (.75 mi) through the heart of Barcelona. It is always busy with both tourists and l ocals out sampling the myriad restaurants, boutiques and kiosks and is especially packed during the summer tourist season.

Barceloneta Beach is one of the city’s oldest and best-loved beaches, stretching about the same length as Las Ramblas along the Mediterranean. In addition to swimming and sunning it has areas for gymnastics, beach volleyball and tennis…along with dozens of bars and tapas cafes!

The electric ferry substantially reduces travel time between the popular destinations by avoiding the area’s all-too-common traffic jams. In its first three months of operation, the Bus Nàutic service has already completed more than 10,000 trips and it is estimated it will save 90 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year, significantly contributing to Barcelona’s environmental goals.

Port of Barcelona president Mr. José Antonio Carbonell emphasized this, saying “The arrival of the new electric water taxi marks a meaningful step forward in our commitment to sustainability. This 100% electric, zero-emission passenger ferry is helping us reshape mobility in the port and accelerate the decarbonization of our operations.”

“Integrating our ARIES i50 motors into Barcelona’s nautical bus fleet underscores our commitment to making maritime transport quieter, cleaner, and more reliable,” said Adrian Patzak, COO at Molabo GmbH. “Our low-voltage propulsion solutions provide plenty of power for this large, heavy pas...

A great combo – Flux Marine outboard and the electric Scout 215 XSF

Plugboats 2025-04-14 | Flux Marine is a US innovator in electric propulsion that first attracted attention when they won two awards, including ‘Best Green Product’, at the 2021 Newport Yachting Festival.

Listen to this article as a podcast:

It is led by CEO Ben Sorkin, COO Daylin Frantin and CTO Jonathan Lord . Sorkin and Frantin have been friends since growing up boating together in upstate New York, where Sorkin would pilot remote control boats around Lake George. Sorkin met Lord at Princeton University, where he proposed a hydrogen propulsion project to a professor. The professor suggested battery electric instead, Sorkin developed the concept enough to get seed funding from the university’s Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering and Flux Marine (plugboats.com/tag/flux) was born after they graduated in 2018.

Read: Flux Marine lands $15.5M Series A Funding (plugboats.com/electric-outboards-investment-15-5m-flux-marine)

The start-up was selected for many accelerator programs and received important grants, then raised $15.5 million in a Series A funding round. They originally had three electric outboard models but opted to focus on just one, the Flux 100 HP, which can be programmed for lower and variable power outputs.

Scout one of the first to partner with Flux

Scout Boats of North Carolina was one of the first companies they partnered with to offer electric boat packages and they now have the 215 Dorado and the 215 Sport XSF. Flux also partners with Highfield RIBS (rigid inflatable boats) on their Sport 660 model, and recently added a Tritoon to their model lineup.

(plugboats.com/flux-marine-outboard-electric-scout-215-xsf/flux-scout-miami) I got an invitation from Ben to go out with him for a sea trial on the Scout 215 XSF during the 2025 Miami Boat Show and jumped at the opportunity.

Scout launched the non-electric version of the 215 XSF in 2016 and it and has earned a reputation for being a comfortable, affordable, well made boat. The centre console layout provides a walk around deck that is quite roomy for a fairly small boat. The ‘SF’ in SFX stands for Sport Fishing, so there are plenty of built in rod holders and other features for the avid angler, but there is also lots of comfortable seating that makes this a great all around family boat.

There are a couple of things about it that make it a good candidate for electric outboard propulsion and match up particularly nicely with Flux’s technology.

Optimized weight and hull design

Like all Scouts, the hull is built of 100% hand-laid fibreglass that provides strength using less resin-saturation and helps reduce overall weight. Weight, of course, has an effect on how much power is needed to run the boat, and comes into play with electric boats because weight reduces range. The efficiency of the hull also effects the range, and the 215 has Scout’s NuV3 proprietary stepped-hull design that uses less fuel – whether that be liquids or electrons.

While the weight is optimized, this is still a 21′ 5″ (6.2 m) boat weighing in at 2,775 lb (1,260 kg).

When powered by burning fossil fuel, the usual motor is a Yamaha or Mercury 150. The Flux 100 electric outboard delivers continuous power of 100 hp (75 kiloWatts) and peak power of 175 hp (130 kW) and as I found out on our sea trial, the electric Flux provides all the power you need.

Yes, the 150 ICE motor does have a higher rating compared to Flux’s continuous rating, but the fact is that all of that power is rarely used, and when it is needed the peak capabilities of the Flux 100 HP easily match the speeds the gas motor provides. There is also ample range for the average boater.

We used very little of that power when we first pulled out of the slip for the sea trial, as many of the waters in and around Miami are speed controlled to help protect manatees. That gave Ben some time to tell me the Flux story.

He told me their vision was always to develop something from the ground up, get rid of any preconceptions coming from what already existed – in ICE outboards or electrics – and start with a totally clean slate. The two criteria that everything revolved around were: maximizing efficiency and eliminating any outboard motor pain points.

They were already ahead on the efficiencies, simply by using an electric powerhead as compared to a gas motor that creates a lot of heat and noise, but only converts about 30% of the energy in fossil fuel into actual work.

Flux outboard designed with a clean slate

Outboards usually have other inefficiencies on top of that. Traditional setups have a complicated gear mechanism that transfers the vertical rotation of the drive shaft to the horizontal rotation of the prop shaft. Ben and his team did their analyses and found that a further 15% (of the 30% efficiency) get lost in the cogs.

So the team looked at belt drives. Flux’s electric motor is over 90% efficient and synchronous belt drives are up to 98% efficient. Flux bega...

Inflatable houseboat pioneer launches new model

Plugboats 2025-03-29 | Hovercraft, the Slovenian company that created the popular Electricat inflatable houseboat, has launched a new model that incorporates all the learning and customer feedback from the past five years.

The Electricat 16 name reflects its size – 16 square metres (175 square feet) of deck space – that can accommodate up to 10 people for fun on the water, with 6 m² (65 sq ft) of space on the roof that can be used for sunbathing or removable solar powers to charge the electric motor’s battery. The salon area has over 2 m (6’ 6”) of head room.

Inflatable houseboat fits into SUV

For a family or group of friends looking to get away for a day, this is a great solution. The entire unit (less motor and battery) folds up and weighs only 170 kg (375 lb) with the heaviest part being 50 kg (110 lb). Two people can easily load it into a car (uninflated!) Once you get to the lake it inflates in a few minutes, the parts zip together and all you need to add is the motor, food and drinks, a cooler and some beach towels.

It is a houseboat, so obviously not designed for speed, but you can get to your favourite swimming spot or just cruise along the shore at up to 4 knots (4.5 mph / 7kmh) with a 1kW (≈ 1.5 hp) electric outboard and up to 7 knots (8 mph / 12km/h with a 3kW (≈ 4.5 hp) unit.

For a smaller group or a family, the Electricat 16 converts to an on-water tent in minutes for overnighting. Windows and doors zip on to enclose the salon, and you already have a giant air mattress underneath you.

One of many inflatable innovations

Blaž Stepišnik is the President/CEO of Hovercraft and the creator of the Electric inflatable houseboats. The first model was a Finalist in the 2020 Gussies Electric Boat Awards and won the Solar Award at the e-Regatta of the 2021 Venice Boat Show.

Stepišnik started the company in 2003 to produce sport hovercrafts – hence the company name – then shifted focus to inflatables when he saw the possibilities in all kinds of areas – structures, advertising platforms, swimming pools, land vehicles, watercraft and more.

He and his team are well-recognized as top experts in double-walled inflatable structures of all kinds made from CSM (Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene, also known as Hypalon), rubber, and PVC. They now produce innovative solutions for a wide range of applications, including civil protection, rescue operations, construction transport and sports equipment.

A few examples of their inflatable solutions:

• a Cargo Platform for transporting heavy machinery, military vehicles, and oversized equipment across water bodies or challenging terrains

• Houses and Hangars that can be quickly set up for military, rescue, medical, and industrial operations

• the AirDrive, an advanced amphibious vehicle designed to conquer diverse terrains—from open water and shallow shores to mud, snow, ice, rocks, and sand

• the Airtrack pad designed for gymnastics, martial arts and professional sports applications

On the watercraft side, the Jet Boat was one of Stepišnik’s first successes. It comes is sort of like an inflatable dinghy with the back half taken off. The Jet Boat, which comes in various sizes, attaches to the front of any jetski to turn it into a boat that can carry up to 10 people.

The Ferryboat is an 8m (26 ft) barge that inflates in 5 minutes and is certified to carry up to 5 tonnes (11,000 lbs) and is ideal for transporting personnel, vehicles, and heavy equipment like excavators for military, emergency, rescue and construction.

Also available as smaller Electricat 450

Hovercraft also offers smaller version of the Electricat 16 – the Electricat 450 – that has 8 m² of deck space below and a 4 m² roof. It is available with the option of adding a steering wheel console and seat, which adds to the comfort on the water but increases the weight and reduces transportability.

While I haven’t been on an Electricat, I have seen and inspected them up close them on land at various boat shows and have to say they look like a convenient and affordable way for a family or friends to spend quality time on the water.

Their light weight and the way they are used also makes them a great match for electric motors. No one is looking to break a speed record on a houseboat, the Electricat is much more like a pontoon experience – with the added bonus of an upper sundeck – where you are able to enjoy time together without the noise, smell and environmental impact of burning gasoline.

Hovercraft (https://www.hovercraft.si/electricat-16?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton)

The post Inflatable houseboat pioneer launches new model (plugboats.com/inflatable-houseboat-pioneer-launches-new-model) appeared first on Plugboats (plugboats.com) .

Voltari delivers 1st high speed electric RIB to Coast Guard

Plugboats 2025-03-28 | Last November electric speedboat specialist Voltari launched their Patrol 26 RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat), a cutting edge patrol vessel designed for government, military, and security applications.

In December, ISED Canada (Innovation, Science and Economic Development) acquired a Patrol 26 CC for testing by the Canadian Coast Guard in the Pacific Ocean off British Columbia. Now the Coast Guard has taken delivery of a Patrol 26 RIB unit that will be patrolling the waters at the other end of the country – 6,100 kms (3,800 mi) away – in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

“We are not only helping government fleets achieve operational goals but also contributing to a more sustainable future on a global scale,” said Tim Markou, President of Voltari.

Silent, low heat motors ideal for security use

The fuel savings of electric over fossil fuel are one big advantage an electric patrol boat has over the ICE variety. Another is that the silent motor operation and minimal heat output makes it ideal for military and security use.

Voltari are experts in carbon fibre hulls. CEO and Founder Cam Heaps is a long time speedboat fan who spent years customizing fibreglass boats by chopping off excess weight, then switched to building his own hulls out of lightweight carbon fibre.

In 2022 Voltari purchased the boat molds of one of the legendary ‘Miami Vice / Thunder Row’ builders and went to work coupling the amazing torque of high power electric motors with new ultra light versions of the classic hulls. The result was the Voltari 260 leisure boat. The Patrol 26 is the company’s first entry into the commercial and government market.

Read: How Voltari brought electric to Thunder Row hulls (plugboats.com/voltari-260-electric-speedboat-endurance-records)

The Patrol 26 RIB has a carbon fibre deep-V oceangoing hull with 24-degree deadrise, topped with inflatable tubes around the upper rim. This combination aids bouyancy and stability and ensures superior maneuverability.

Powered by a trimmable outdrive with contra-rotating propellers, continuous power of 425 kW (580 hp) and peak power of 550 kW (750 hp), the craft has a top speed of 55 and cruising speed of 25-30 mph (22-26 kt / 40-48 khm).

It has been designed specifically for near shore search-and-rescue and patrol, with a range of up to 30 miles at cruising speed and 100 miles at slow speed. Markou said in response to a LinkedIn inquiry that it “provides a full shift (day) use within its application.”

It also has shock suspension seating for crew comfort and a fixed-mount FLIR thermal night vision camera. during demanding missions.a fixed-mount FLIR thermal night vision camera. A secure dry storage area near the helm is designed to hold marine flares and weapons.

High speed electric RIB could save $1M per vessel

For charging, the Patrol 26 RIB supports the J1772/CCS1 interface, which is compatible with Level 2 and DC fast charging. It can be charged at standard marine pedestals offering 50 or 100 A, allowing for a full overnight charge using dockside power. The same connector also enables on-trailer charging using most automotive charging stations, providing versatile charging options for operators.

Markou told National Defence magazine that “One of the biggest advantages of the boat is the cost savings. You eliminate the cost of fuel, and, having no service intervals on the motor or the powertrain, you’ve cut your service cost down to something very minimal,” he said. “In fact, we could go as far as to say it would be one-tenth the cost or less.” A company release estimated that the Patrol 26 RIB could save buyers $1 million per unit over 10 years.

Voltari has operations in both the USA (Fort Lauderdale) and Canada (Montreal and Merrickville). In addition to the Canadian Coast Guard order, a U.S. naval defense contractor has procured two units for a U.S. Navy security contract in San Diego.

“We are thrilled about the Patrol 26 RIB as it marks a significant shift for electric vessels in extra-rugged conditions, said Heaps. “We’re not just building a boat, we’re offering government institutions and militaries a solution that combines high speed, minimal environmental impact, and exceptional durability,”

Voltari (voltarielectric.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton)

The post Voltari delivers 1st high speed electric RIB to Coast Guard (plugboats.com/voltari-1st-high-speed-electric-rib-coast-guard) appeared first on Plugboats (plugboats.com) .

WaVeS 26 electric boats and boating news, March 23, 2025

Plugboats 2025-03-24 | Plugboats WAVES (Watts, Amps, Volts, Electrons) is a regular collection of electric boats and boating news items that we have written about before and are updating, or items we are going to write about but are waiting for more information / developments – or items that are just tidbits you might find interesting.

Here is WaVeS #26, with electric boat and boating news about:

1. Dockmate and Molabo collaborate on remote control system

2. Two electric ferries for Spain – Morocco route

3. As of April 1, all pleasure craft in Amsterdam must be fossil-fuel-free

4. Gussies Winner taking part in Venice e-Regatta and Monaco Energy Boat Challenge

5. Germany takes delivery of its first all-electric ferry

6. Damen chosen for two electric ferries in Toronto, Canada

Dockmate, Molabo collaborate on remote control system

Molabo electric propulsion and Dockmate remote boat control systems are now working together to provide boat owners with full motion control from anywhere onboard a vessel.

Molabo (plugboats.com/tag/molabo) is known for its award-winning touch-safe electric drives of up to 50 kiloWatts (65 hp) that operate on 48 Volts and do not need complex high-voltage safety measures, even at outputs of 50 kW. The company was founded by students at the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich in 2016 and now has systems propelling leisure boats, workboats and small ferries all over the world.

Dockmate is a Belgian company founded in 2012, that developed a system to make boat docking easy by incorporating all all manoeuvring systems into a single wireless remote control. Their products are also found in vessels worldwide and they recently launched the Dockmate Positioning System (DPS V2) that extends the capabilities of the remote control to maintain a boat’s position and stability in open waters.

“The flexibility of a modular system is at the heart of our ability to offer inboard and outboard propulsion for a wide variety of vessels,” said Molabo managing director, Adrian Patzak. “Dockmate is plug-and-play compatible with our controllers and throttles, making it the perfect complement to offer intuitive and easy low-speed manoeuvring.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with Molabo to further elevate the onboard experience for customers,” said Dockmate US CEO, Marc Curreri. “We are confident that boaters looking for Molabo’s environmentally friendly and touch-safe sysyems will greatly benefit and appreciate the added capabilities of Dockmate products.”

Molabo (molabo.com/marine/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves) Dockmate (https://dockmate.eu/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=waves)

See Molabo motors for sale in Plugboats Marketplace (plugboats.com/search-listings/?q=Molabo&l=-1&c=315)

Two electric ferries for Spain – Morocco route

Two new catamaran ferries have been commissioned for the 17 nautical mile route between Tarifa, Spain and Tangier, Morocco. The public tender was won by Spanish ferry operator Baleària, which has services in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and the Florida / Caribbean region.

The ships are 7 meters long, 25 meters wide and have the capacity to transport 800 passengers and 225 vehicles. They will be powered by four battery electric thrusters of 4 MegaWatts each for a total of 16MW. A top speed of 26 knots means they will cover the route in about 40 minutes.

Recharging will be done at each end of the journey using 8 MWh batteries that will be connected to the ships through robotic arms. The investment in both ports amounts to 62 million euros.

This is Baleària’s flagship environmental project and heralds the start of developing a ‘green corridor’ for the routes from Spain to Africa and around the Belearic Islands.

“It is a pioneering and technologically advanced public-private project that will allow us to make the entire route for the first time using only electric energy and, therefore, with zero emissions,” said Baleària CEO Adolfo Utor, “an example of mobility, modernity and international sustainability”.

As of April 1, all pleasure craft in Amsterdam must be fossil-fuel-free

As of April 1, 2025, the city centre area of Amsterdam will become a zero-emission zone for pleasure boats. These are defined as vessels used for non-commercial recreation. There is an exception on the main thoroughfares and the rule does not apply to sailing houseboats. Hybrid boats with both electric and fuel engines are allowed, as long as they are running on the electric motor.

According to a city strategy paper, around 14,000 pleasure craft regularly sail in the city, as well as 600 passenger ships (500 of which are already electrically powered) and 10,500 ships moored in public waters.

This is part of a wider ban on combustion vehicles (announced in 2023) that allows only zero-emission taxis, vans, truck...

Acel Power and VIVIC partner on new line of electric yachts

Plugboats 2025-03-22 | VIVIC Yachts of Taiwan and ACEL Power of Canada have entered a Joint Development Agreement for electric yachts that brings together ACEL’s innovative electric propulsion technology with VIVIC’s boatyard expertise.

VIVIC will be responsible for yacht design and construction technology while ACEL is tasked with the research, development, production, and integration of the electric propulsion systems.

Brings together individual strengths

VIVIC first came onto the electric yacht scene in 2022 when it presented its 27 foot VVT model, equipped with the company’s own electric propulsion design, at the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Service Trade Conference.

ACEL (plugboats.com/tag/acel) was founded a year earlier to develop and manufacture high powered electric propulsion systems fully integrated with their proprietary battery and monitoring/management software. They currently offer 50 and 75 hp (35 and 55 kW) electric outboard motors, and are working on a full range from 1 to 650 horsepower (.75 – 475 kW).

Read more about ACEL technology in Plugboats (plugboats.com/acel-electric-outboards-adds-high-power-ie150-ie-250)

The companies say this new collaboration allows them to bring their complementary strengths and technologies together to accelerate the development of electric yachts and foster innovation for new benchmarks in performance, safety, and longevity.

VIVIC designs, produces, sells, operates, and services yachts in North America, Asia, and the Middle East. It specializes in catamarans for both personal use and tourism operators, with a line of models ranging from 12 to 18 metres (40 to 58 feet).

The catamaran design provides a perfect platform for large open living spaces, requires less propulsive energy than a monohull and a draft that allows the boats to navigate shallow and inland waters. When equipped with electric propulsion they are particularly suitable for environmentally sensitive and fossil-fuel restricted lake waters.

Line launching with three electric yachts

Three VIVIC models will immediately be available with electric propulsion – the EV1, EV2 and EV58 – with others to follow. The electrical backbone of the ACEL system will also power the house systems of the yachts.

The EV2 is the electric version of their 14 metre/45 foot VV2 model, with a spacious salon and galley area, fore and aft sunning decks and cabins in each of the pontoons.

The EV58 is a double deck catamaran with a beam of 8.4 metres/28 feet that can be outfitted as a personal leisure yacht but is also configured as a floating luxury business reception and event space with large outdoor lounge, dining and party areas, barbecues and water toys.

VIVIC President and CEO Tse-Ling Wang commented, “We are optimistic that this partnership with ACEL Power will enhance our competitiveness in the global market and provide fresh momentum for future growth.”

ACEL CEO and Co-founder Anthony Liu added, “This partnership with VIVIC represents a significant step forward in accelerating the adoption of electric propulsion in the luxury yacht market. Through advanced digitalization, we are creating a smart catamaran that enhances performance, efficiency, and the overall user experience. We are not only developing world-class electric yachts but also driving the industry toward a cleaner, smarter, and more connected future.”

Under the terms of the agreement VIVIC will handle the production, construction, sales, and after-sales services in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan while ACEL will manage sales and after-sales in all other areas and produce the electric propulsion systems. The first yacht delivery is scheduled for July 2025.

ACEL Power (acelpower.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton) VIVIC Yachts (vivicyacht.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=postbutton)

The post Acel Power and VIVIC partner on new line of electric yachts (plugboats.com/acel-power-vivic-partnering-new-line-electric-yachts) appeared first on Plugboats (plugboats.com) .

Podcast: Plugboats Newsletter March 16, 2025

Plugboats 2025-03-16 | In addition to the articles on Plugboats, we also send out a newsletter by email that is a collection of the articles from the preceding weeks.

We have also found that some people like to listen to the newsletter rather than read the newsletter, so it is also available as a podcast.

You can listen to the podcast of the March 16 newsletter below, and subscribe to the podcast through any of the links under the player.

If your favourite podcast platform is not below, please let us know through the contact form at the bottom f the page.

The newsletter of March 16 includes links to these stories (They open in new windows so you can easily get back here):

• EVOA electrifies the Williams Jet Tender EVOJET (plugboats.com/plugboats-podcast-evoa-electrifies-williams-evojet)

• Artemis Technologies electric foiling ferries being built for Seattle area (plugboats.com/artemis-technologies-electric-foiling-ferry-seattle)

• RAD Propulsion and Seavolt chargers team up to offer one stop marine electrification (plugboats.com/rad-propulsion-seavolt-charging-australia-pacific)

• Frauscher 740 Mirage Air electric day boat now powered by Evoy Vita (plugboats.com/frauscher-740-mirage-air-electric-day-boat-now-powered-by-evoy-vita)

• Rafael Nadal team wins in ‘best ever E1 electric speedboat race’ (plugboats.com/rafael-nadal-team-wins-in-best-ever-e1-electric-speedboat-race)

Click »» here to see all of the newsletters (plugboats.beehiiv.com)

Click »» here to have the written newsletter delivered to your inbox (plugboats.beehiiv.com/subscribe) (it’s free!)

[contact-form]

The post Podcast: Plugboats Newsletter March 16, 2025 (plugboats.com/podcast-plugboats-newsletter-march-16-2025) appeared first on Plugboats (plugboats.com) .

Plugboats Podcast: EVOA electrifies the Williams Jet Tender EVOJET

Plugboats 2025-03-05 | This Plugboats Podcast features a conversation at the world’s largest Boat Show in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Tom Dowdell, Head of Marketing for Williams Jet Tenders and Josh Stoddard, Head of Engineering at EVOA Propulsion (plugboats.com/tag/evoa) , a US developer of high power electric boat drive systems that was contracted by Williams to do an all electric version of their EVOJET 70.

The EVOJET 70e was a Finalist in the 2024 Gussies Electric Boat Awards, and another EVOA powered boat, the Mastercraft NXT21, was a nominee.

See all Finalists in the 2024 Gussies Electric Boat Awards (plugboats.com/vote-in-the-2024-gussies-electric-boat-awards)

You can listen to the podcast here or on any of the services below. The transcription below has been lightly edited for the written word.

Jeff Butler, Plugboats:

Before we get going here, Tom, can you just tell us a little bit about Williams Jet Tenders?

Tom Dowdell of Williams Jet Tenders:

Yeah, sure. So we make about 1,000 boats in our factory in Oxfordshire in the UK, we’re the biggest boat builder in the UK by volume. We’ve been going for 20 years, we employ about 140, 150 staff in total. We have over 40 dealers all over the world, from USA to Asia, Australia and all throughout Europe.

The focus is is on jet tenders, a tender for yachts. Yachts of a certain size can’t get close to the shore, o they use the tender for journeys from ship to shore carrying passengers, and also use them for things like water sports and social activities and just generally exploring the local area.

When Williams says ‘electric’ it’s big news

JB: So when William says, let’s do something electric, it’s big news in the tender and yacht world.

TD: Correct. Yeah, it was big news. It was a big step for us, and it’s something that we have been talking about for several years. I remember it coming up, certainly over five years ago, we didn’t think we were ready, or the market was ready to take it at that point in time

JB: And now you think the market is getting there and will grow for the future?

TD: It’s a good question. A lot of it will be driven from the big super yachts and shipbuilders – they want to incorporate new technology, and one of them is an electric tender. We’ve had requests from customers and from OEMs, and we wanted to show what is out there and what’s possible.

We have our boat here at Düsseldorf, the EVOJET, which is a seven meter boat, and we thought that it is a great vessel for the technology. And obviously we partnered with EVOA on this journey. But I guess we’ll get into the into the project, details of how it all went.

JB: Josh, can you tell us a bit about your background? Were you always in electric boats?

Josh Stoddard of EVOA:

So my background is automotive engineering. I kind of got my start with electrification in graduate school. I was developing plug-in and hybrid electric vehicles. Ultimately, I worked at General Motors for a handful of years, doing vehicles for the army, as well as engine control software, prototype EVs and things like that. So that’s the background. Eventually I came down to Orlando, Florida to do electrification in the boat world.

Tom Dowdell of Williams Jet Tenders (L) and Josh Stoddard of EVOA (R)

JB: And how did it come about that EVOA got together with Williams?

JS: EVOA wants to partner with the preeminent manufacturers in their category. We have a high quality product, performance driven, and so does Williams. We had actually made a visit a few years prior on one of our traditional business trips, and just let them know that we existed, you know, planted that seed, and when it came time for them to decide on who they should partner with, on the electrification front, they knew that we were able to provide the technology to meet their performance requirements to fit into the EVOJET.

JB: Tom, Williams already has a very successful EVOJET 70, diesel powered, so how do you go about taking that and saying, ‘we’d like to make an electric version’?

TD: What we normally do at Williams is we come up with a project brief, so we highlight what we want to achieve from it, and we highlight any suppliers or key stakeholders who can help us deliver that., being, EVOA in this situation.

Performance is in our DNA as a company, that is what you know, driving a Williams, it makes you feel alive, and that is what our customers like. So we can’t have any compromise on that. So the top speed is still 40 miles an hour for this boat. But then it was also the range. And obviously range is a grey area, because it depends how fast you go, how you’re performing, how much charge you get…

‘Top speed is 40 mph for this boat’

JB: Josh, maybe you can tell us a bit about how you meet those criteria that Williams had set up for you. You have the requirement of needing to match the top speed of 40 miles per hour. But diesel packs a lot more energy into a kilogram than a battery. How did y...

Molabo adds new 48 volt 25 kW electric boat motor

Plugboats 2024-11-06 | Molabo, the German manufacturer known for its unique 48 volt safe-to-touch 50 kiloWatt drive, has announced a new 25 kw electric boat motor that uses the same patented technology.

The new Aries i25 inboard delivers 25 kW of high torque power (about 35 hp) and virtually silent zero emission operation for displacement boats up to 6 tons, sailboats up to 10 meters (32 feet), and small planing boats up to 6 m (20 ft).

Rods instead of windings in patented motor

It uses the same patented ISCAD (Intelligent Stator Cage Drive) technology as the company’s 50kW inboard and outboard models. All three motors deliver high performance using only 48 volts of electricity.

Without getting too technical, the rotating part of an electric motor is called the rotor and the stationary part is the stator. In conventional motors the electricity flows through copper windings that wrap around and within the stator, but in the ISCAD motor the electricity flows through rods that form a stator ‘cage’.

“That allows individual control of the current in every bar of the motor,” says Adrian Patzak, COO of Molabo (plugboats.com/tag/molabo) , “and by doing that you can generate completely new degrees of freedom with the magnetic fields in the motor and produce higher power with lower voltages.”

Conventional windings motors with power below 20 kW (about 27 hp) can operate on 48 volts (or less), but anything above that requires higher voltage. Since voltages above 60 volts can be life-threatening, those higher voltage systems require special safety measures and certified personnel – increasing both complexity and costs.

All of the Molabo motors operate on 48 volts. which is touch safe and requires no special training or equipment. The benefits also extend to the cable sets, which are less susceptible to faults and require less maintenance than high-voltage cables.

25 kw electric boat motor easily installed

For boat owners looking to switch to electric propulsion the Aries i25 offers a compact, easy to install safe voltage solution at an accessible price point. It also give naval architects, designers, manufacturers, and boatyards a more cost effective high-performance electric option.

Molabo was founded by Patzak and Florian Bachheibl in 2016, three years after they first started working on the ISCAD idea, when they were students at Munich’s University of Federal Defense.

Read more about Molabo’s ISCAD technology (plugboats.com/virtual-gearbox-50kw-48-volt-electric-boat-motor)

I spoke with Patzak last year about the reaction to their work and he said there was some initial skepticism, even from other engineers. They persevered, though, and in 2018 their invention received the German Mobility Award along with the Create the Future Design Award from the engineering industry magazine Tech Briefs.

The first inboard iteration of the Molabo 50 kw model went into production in 2020 and in 2023 they launched the Aries R50 outboard, with both models winning for “New Propulsion Technology of the Year” at the Electric and Hybrid Marine Awards.

Multiple boatyards using Molabo motors

Those 50 kW motors can now be found on boats from a variety of yards, including the Frauscher 650 Alassio (frauscherboats.com/boat/650-alassio/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) , Capoforte SQ240I (capoforteboats.com/electric-range/sq240i/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) , Design Boots Tender 06e (https://www.designboats.ch/de/modelle/tender-06/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) , Helios Omega 6.5 (https://www.heliosmarine.eu/helios-omega-6-5m/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) , MY-Elegance S (https://www.my-electroboat.de/my-elegance-s/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) , ECO Inspiration 1 (https://www.eco-inspiration.eu/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campaign=post) and Earthling E-40 Catamaran (earthlingethos.com) .

The new motor uses the MolaConnect S Box system architecture, a smaller and more economical version of the MolaConnect system already proven in those production boats. Remote service and maintenance are through the MolaLink IoT (Internet of Things) gateway.

The i25 battery system is made with Victron Energy components, using safe LiFePO (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry that provides high energy density at an affordable price per kWh. Four compact battery modules with 30 kWh battery banks each weighing 52 kg (114 lbs) make installation easy and enable optimum weight distribution in small hulls. If needed, the capacity can be expanded to 48 kWh for specific customer requirements.

The new Aries i25 inboard will make its debut at this year’s METSTRADE industry show in Amsterdam November 19-21.

Patzak and his team are excited. “Our clients have been waiting for an economically feasible system to integrate into smaller boats,” he says, “and we delivered.”

Molabo website (https://molabo.com/?utm_source=plugboats&utm_campa...

Silent Yachts Silent 60

Plugboats 2022-08-07 | A short video of the Silent Yachts solar electric catamaran cruising along the Florida IntracoastalWaterway. No rumbling, no fumes, no emission, no noise - just pure electric propulsion

St. Tropez e-Marine Highlights - September 2022

Plugboats 2021-10-03 | The first e-Marine, organized by the Aqua superPower marine charging network, took place in St. Tropez, showing off the products from major e-boat and electric boat manufacturers.

Beau Lake Tahoe 14 Electric Runabout

Plugboats 2019-08-23 | The Beau Lake 14 is a beautifully crafted electric boat made for quiet cruising on a quiet lake. Full article at plugboats.com/beautiful-ride-in-a-beau-lake-boat

Beau Lake

Plugboats 2019-07-16 | ...

Venice Agenda 2028

Plugboats 2019-07-11 | VeniceAgenda2028 is a worldwide petition urging the government of Venice to require all boat traffic on the city's canals to be electric by 2028

Electric Hydrofoils

Plugboats 2019-04-22 | This is a compilation of footage from 7 manufacturers of electric hydrofoils: Lift (creator of the first electric hydrofoil in 2017), Flite, Cabratec, Jet Foiler, Elevate, Waydoo, and VEFoil. Music is by Free Vibes. Read the article about 13 new electric hydrofoils on www.plugboats.com

Mothership Narrowboat Solar Roof

Plugboats 2019-04-16 | This video shows the innovative process used by Mothership Marine of Australia to build their solar powered narrowship. More information can be found on their site at http://mothershipmarine.com