5 Reasons Why It Makes Sense To Use An Electric Power Train For Your Boat

Benefits of Electric Boat Engines

Instant Torque

Affordability

Quiet

No chemical discharge

Good for the environment

Questions about Electric Boats

The Benefits of electric vehicles

It’s all exciting and necessary to move forwards towards an electric future with electric vehicles.
But, What are the real benefits of electric forms of transport?
There are great benefits when you choose electric vehicles over petrol/diesel cars, boats, and airplanes.

1. Cheaper to run

Running costs are much lower.
To charge an electric car costs about a third of what petrol cost per km for a conventional car, we can use this rough equation to see just how much you’d save using an electric boat rather than a conventional ICE motor.
Batteries for electric vehicles are getting cheaper and cheaper as technology changes, this means that the price of electric vehicles are busy falling and soon it is going to be cheaper to buy an electric car than a conventional car.
All this means you will have more money in your pocket to spend on having fun with the family.

2. Cheaper to maintain

Electric cars have fewer moving parts than conventional cars which means less to maintain if anything. Electric vehicles have no exhaust system, no starter motor or radiator – a lot less maintenance and a lot less cost! With electric boats, the use of diesel and fossil fuels will drop demand and therefore make ICE hybrids a cheap way for a long-distance vessel to operate at a benefit to the environment and your bottom line.

3. Health benefits

With no exhaust system, there are no harmful fumes, which leads to cleaner air and fewer health problems down the track. The argument that factories make a lot of pollution is a large sticking point, however, because a factory has no weight restrictions the ability to create a filter system is there and with all manufacturers looking at long-term solutions for pollution we may find large filtration devices at factories to almost completely reduce the issue of manufacturing pollution.
Electric vehicles are quieter than conventional ICE variants, less noise means better working conditions which is good for the working environment and keeping employees happy.

Being healthier and happier, your work efficiency will improve which could lead to longer work hours which aren’t as fatiguing. This equates to a much better bottom line.
Electric vehicles can improve safety as they have a lower center of gravity which makes them less likely to roll over and their body construction makes for lower risk of fire and thus much safer in an accident.

Conclusion

Electric vehicles are all quieter, more comfortable, safer and a lot more sustainable and better for the working environment.

Would you like to inquire about an Electric boat?

Call Electric boats Today

Technology Behind Electric Boats and Watercraft

With the dramatic rise in the number of people interested in eco-friendly solutions, multiple industries have changed the way they conduct business, the materials they use, and the products they offer. Especially for those who spend a lot of time on the water, electric boats have become all the rage. Whether used for personal recreation or as part of a chartering company, these vessels allow people to enjoy what they love most without contributing to pollution.

Just as with gas-powered watercraft, electric boats come in a broad range of sizes, styles, and power. With so many possibilities, there is a perfect vessel for everyone. In fact, when looking at the new boats on the market today, they boast stunning designs. Apart from that, they offer cutting-edge technology, something everyone interested in buying one should understand to some degree.

One important thing to note is in addition to the incredible new electric-powered vessels you can purchase, experts can convert gas-powered watercraft to electric using state-of-the-art technology. For a better understanding of just how powerful these boats are, one achieved a record speed of more than 80 kilometers per hour. However, the actual speed of the watercraft depends on several factors including the boat’s weight and the number and type of electric motors.

One primary difference between electric and conventional boats is the latter has limited power output. The reason is this vessel must dissipate heat through the casings. With an electric-powered vessel, the motor runs just slightly above ambient temperature. As a result, this type of watercraft can produce more power.

The recharging capability is another aspect of the technology used to build electric boats, which also varies. Thanks to both hybrid and electric-powered propulsion systems, the average vessel can cruise for up to eight hours when fully charged, eliminating the need to return to the dock for refueling. Even when electric power begins to diminish, recharging to 75 percent typically takes no more than seven hours for a single motor.

Benefits of Electric Boats

Whether buying new or converting your current gas-powered boat, an electric-powered vessel provides you a long list of benefits. For example, there is zero emission, making this an environmentally friendly choice. Also, the noise level diminishes dramatically. Especially if you have a charter business, your onboard guests can carry on conversations without raising their voices as they would when on a conventional gas-powered boat.

Electric boats do not generate any unpleasant smells, making rides far more enjoyable and safer for the planet. Along with a remote system interface, you never have to worry about high-voltage risk. In addition, there is no wait time for the engine rev to settle and you can go from zero to full torque instantaneously. The technology of this advanced watercraft includes remote diagnostics, allowing you to stay ahead of potential issues.

Something else to consider is that with the technology used in manufacturing electric boats, maintenance is a breeze. The best maker of electric-powered vessels and conversions uses innovative designs for enhanced maneuverability, stability, and safety. As a perfect example, the 4100 RHIB Herley boat comes fitted with 600mm OD Hypalon tubes. Not only does that make operating the boat easier but it also enhances both protection and safety.

As for the future of electric boats, advanced technology, incredible safety features, and all the comforts of home on many models lead experts to predict demand will increase substantially over the next 10 to 20 years.

As environment-friendly vessels with high durability, low maintenance, and operation affordability, electric boats surpass what conventional watercraft offers. These boats are perfect for limited speed-control zones but also designed for both salt and freshwater bodies. As an incredible combination of high-end design, advanced technology, superior performance, easy handling, and excellent safety, it is easy to understand why many people now prefer electric boats.

Conversion

If you have a standard gas-powered watercraft and want to enjoy the benefits offered by an electric boat, a reputable company can assist with conversion. For this, it begins with a new system design, followed by the work of a skilled engineering team to remove the existing engine or engines, as well as any necessary power systems.

If you do not want a full conversion to electric, you can go with a hybrid system, including an extremely efficient generator. However, if your goal is to convert entirely to an electric and solar system, the right company can help with that as well. In this case, experts replace the combustion engine with electric motors. Included with the system are power, energy storage, charging, generation, and even solar power.

While doing your part to reduce harmful pollution, you end up with an electric boat that operates smoothly and quietly. You will also bring down by up to 10 percent your operating costs. Regardless of the style of boat you want or the type you already have, sailboat, yacht, fishing vessel, and so on, electric power is the way to go.

Types of Electric Boats Available

Experts predict the electric boat market will see an 11 percent jump between 2018 and 2028. Although boats operated by electric power have been around for a long time, as consumers become more aware of the various options and benefits, many want to either purchase this type of watercraft or retrofit a gas- or diesel-powered vessel they already own.

As the demand for electric boats continues to skyrocket, manufacturers recognize the need to expand their offerings to give people more options. Whether you are interested in an electric boat for commercial or personal reasons, start by looking at the vessels currently available from Herley Boats, a highly respected and knowledgeable boat building company behind the electric boat industry.

Recreational Electric Boats

• Commander– This boat’s design and construction is the result of spending many years at sea. Herley Boats built this vessel from the hull up using a combination design of innovative hull shapes and traditional displacement methods. The redeveloped hull provides entry of 60 degrees at the bow that effortlessly splits through waves before gliding flat. If you want an electric-powered boat that offers both comfort and safety, this is an excellent consideration.

• Captain– Spend a fun weekend with family and friends on the water while enjoying all the comforts of home with this electric-powered aluminum trailer boat. Along with plenty of speed, this vessel boasts full sleeping accommodations, a galley, shower, and toilet. With everything the boat provides, there is no need to turn back to shore for necessities. As a result, you and your guests can spend more time on the open waters.

• RHIB 2800– Are you looking for a smaller boat with all the best features? Check out the RHIB 2800. A few of its key features include a low center of gravity, clear visibility while at the helm, superior quality construction, and added security from the inflatable Hypalon tubes.

• RHIB 4100– If you love diving, this electric-powered boat is perfect. For optimum protection and safety, it features 600mm OD Hypalon tubes. The versatile platform is another attraction, allowing divers to make safe and easy entry. Complementing the boat further is an incredible interior and ample deck space.

Commercial Electric Boats

• Pocket Mega Yacht– Along with a futuristic aesthetic, this electric boat offers a hydrodynamic design that guarantees a smooth ride. If you have always wanted to own a yacht but the price fell too far outside your budget, consider a pocket-sized version with unbelievable areas for accommodations and entertainment. Best of all, this watercraft has a power-train design to meets your eco-friendly preferences.

• The Explorer– If you want to talk about an impressive electric boat, the Explorer will surpass all your expectations. Herley Boats crafted this vessel with an offshore expedition hull and unbelievable style and luxurious finishes. Other features include a designated entertainment area, separate laundry facility, a galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to eight people. The boat even has a raised wheelhouse, giving you extra space for storing provisions. You can extend your guests’ time on the water by selecting the hybrid model while at the same time reducing pollution and noise that negatively impacts the environment.

• Commercial– We can convert or build boats from small leisure craft right through to fishing vessels. We also do commercial refits and hybrid conversions to full or integrated hybrid. Email Sean to your discuss options.

Check out our blog post about electric tenders (yes we build those as well).

Gas or Diesel Conversions to Electric

If you already own a boat that operates on gas or diesel, you have options for converting it to either a hybrid or an all-electric vessel. The right company starts the conversion process with a new system design. Once complete, a talented engineering team goes to work to remove both power systems and engines.

For this, you can consider two distinct options.

1. Hybrid System– Although this system is not a full “convert to electric,” it still consists of a highly efficient generator.

2. Convert to Electric– If your goal is to have a yacht, sailboat, or some other vessel that runs solely on solar and electric power, select this option. By going through a complete conversion, you can sail the seas as long and often as you want without worrying about harmful exhaust fumes.

Whether you choose to have a hybrid generator added to your vessel or the old engine removed and a complete conversion performed, not only are you helping the environment but also reducing your operating costs. In fact, with an all-electric boat, which includes an electric motor, as well as a system for energy storage, generation, power, charging, and solar, you can operate your watercraft for as little as 10 percent.

New or Converted

Due to an increasing number of people spending time outdoors fishing, diving, and leisure boating, interest in electric boats is becoming the consumer’s preference. For personal recreation, charter boating, rescue operations, and even capturing criminals at sea, both the interest and need for electric boats is on the rise. As demand for electric-powered and hybrid boats increases along with ever-improving technology, you can expect to see even more impressive offerings in the future.

One of the most significant concerns is the increasing amount of pollution coming from conventional propulsion systems. Instead of adding to the problem, a lot of individuals and businesses are choosing electric boats. Also, with stabilized economies around the globe, more people are spending money on tourism, which experts anticipate will further boost the demand for electric-powered boats.

These electric boats are just a few of many options. Based on your specifications, a reputable company can sell you an all-electric boat or modify an existing vessel that runs on gas or diesel fuel. You’ll end up with a boat that makes time on the water safer, more comfortable, more fun, and less polluting.

You can also stay out on the water longer, enhancing the experience of family, friends, or clients. With so many advantages over gas and diesel-powered watercraft, the electric boat market is experiencing a surge in sales with no letup in sight.

Visit our Electric Boat Designs page to view more options or email Sean now to ask about your new boat, hybrid or full conversion options.

Electric Range Anxiety

At one time, the electric car was nothing more than a fantasy, but not anymore. Today, the number of sales for this type of vehicle is increasing with projections for the future looking bright. Although electric cars date back to the early 1800s… Yes you read that correctly.

Read the full story on Business Insider:

Tesla introduced the Roadster in 2008 at the San Francisco International Auto Show. Since then, automakers in several countries have unveiled their version of the electric car.

Initially, when automakers introduced modern-day cars that ran on electricity only, a lot of people felt skeptical, especially about the driving range. In fact, many buyers struggled with “range anxiety,” feeling nervous that their car could die on the road, leaving them stranded.

People now have a much better understanding of how the electric car works and know that they can travel a long distance on a battery alone without any concern. The range varies depending on the type of car, however. For example, the Nissan Leaf travels up to 151 miles, while the new Tesla Model S 100D can go as far as 335 miles, the longest range of any electric car to date.

What Is Range Anxiety?

In simple terms, range anxiety is a bona fide fear of having an insufficient range to reach a specific destination, thereby leaving people stranded. Of all the challenges relating to electric cars, this ranks at the top of the list. Many drivers now understand that they can mitigate this risk by using range extenders, selecting a car with a long range, using a battery-swapping technology, and investing in a top-of-the-line battery.

While some people think that range anxiety is silly, for many individuals, it is a genuine concern. For that reason, automakers of electric cars have done many things to quell the fear that some people experience. Primarily, they have increased awareness about the above solutions. The result of their campaign has helped increase electric car sales. As more boat makers introduce watercraft that rely on electric power, they too need to educate the public.

A New Challenge

Interestingly, from the 1880s through the 1920s, electric boats were quite popular. However, manufacturers then began using the internal combustion engine, pushing the electric option to the side. Today, advanced technology has led to the introduction of a new line of electric boats.

CONTACT US for more information

As with electric-powered cars, experts anticipate that people will again struggle with “range anxiety” when it comes to electric-powered watercraft. If you want to purchase an electric boat, you can put your mind ease by considering a few important factors.

For one thing, some electric boats share technology with the Nissan Leaf. Because this car has proven its reliability, most people who are interested in a watercraft that runs on electricity will not experience the same degree of range anxiety as seen with the introduction of electric-powered cars.

The main issue regarding the development of electric boats is a lack of understanding. As mentioned, sales for electric cars are rising. Based on who you talk to, sales in the U.S. saw an increase of anywhere between 45 and 60 percent in recent years. Even so, these vehicles still only account for 1.5 percent of the market share. That means as electric boats become accessible, manufacturers will need to take unique measures to educate people about range, reliability, safety, and more.

As a growing number of people and industries look for environmentally safe options – and considering that the technology for electric power and propulsion has made so many advancements – boat makers are developing incredible new watercraft. A prime example is the Dasher released by Hinkley Yachts, the first fully electric luxury yacht in the world. While you may not be in the market for a high-end electric boat, the two Torqeedo 80-horsepower electric motors that propel this yacht show just how advanced technology has become.

The questions are, will people be receptive to electric boats, and can they stop worrying about range? Keep in mind that traveling via an electric car and electric boat are two different experiences. In a vehicle, a driver can pull over to the side of the road and call for a tow. On a vessel designed for deeper water, range anxiety becomes a viable issue. The last thing a boat operator wants is to become stuck somewhere in the middle of the ocean.

The irony is that most small to medium outboard motors never came with fuel gauges, so the owner had to guesstimate the fuel required and even carry a backup engine in some cases. Electric boats have a built in “fuel gauge” that is not only extremely accurate in letting you know your power usage, but also helps you learn how the way you use your boat effects the power usage.

This is one of many ways an electric boat is more predicable and therefore more reliable than the old “give it heaps and give the gas tank a shake to see what’s left in the tank” scenario. See the next paragraph to learn more about power calculation.

Overcoming Range Anxiety

Perhaps one of the most important things that potential electric boat buyers need to realize is that many designs include an integrated tracking and monitoring system. Whether using a web or mobile app, an individual can track not only the amount of range remaining but also the number of passengers onboard, the distance from the homeport or dock, and more.

Something else that can put buyers’ range anxiety to rest is the fact that some of the electric boats currently manufactured use hydrogeneration and solar panels to harvest renewable energy. If an operator misjudges the range or runs into some other issue, they can rely on this advanced system as a backup for returning safely to land.

Conclusion

Like electric cars, as electric boats become more technically advanced, they will provide a longer range. Combined with monitoring, tracking, and backup systems, this should help buyers overcome range anxiety.

And if you are still worried about range anxiety you can choose a hybrid model that charges itself!

If you have an interest in buying an all-electric boat, take a page out of the history book on how well electric cars perform. You can avoid range anxiety by conducting as much research as you can on different boat makers, asking tons of questions, and then making an educated decision as to which electric boat works best for your specific needs. Let the fun begin.

CONTACT US for more information

#1) Mylne Bolt 18

People are becoming a lot more interested in unconventional propulsion systems. This is partially due to the growing trend of eco-friendly superyachts which are found on the ocean more often nowadays. As the trend continues, we are seeing more electric tenders on the water instead of diesel tenders. The advantage of electric tenders is they are safer and quieter than diesel tenders. More importantly, they are cleaner and produce less pollution. That is why electric superyacht tenders are dominating the globe quickly.

One particular electric tender that you should look out for is the Mylne Bolt 18. It features a classic design which resembles a yacht from 1896. However, the tender features state of the art technology that makes it one of the best electric superyacht tenders around. It was first introduced in 2012 after it was developed with the assistance of the American company “ReGen Nautic,” which specializes in producing marine propulsion systems. 

The Mylne Bolt 18 contains a 135-horsepower electric motor which is powered by lithium batteries. This gives the tender the ability to move at very fast speeds. In November of 2012, the Bolt 18 was clocked at traveling up to 28.47 knots. This is a national record in Great Britain for fastest water speed in the electric runabout class without any restrictions. 

The Mylne Bolt 18 is 5.5 meters long. This gives it a carrying capacity of 6 passengers max. According to David Gray, who is the designer of the Bolt 18, this electric superyacht tender is the first to be derived from the classic yacht design of the Mylne. 

#2) Goldfish 23 eFusion

The Goldfish 23 eFusion is nicknamed the “Scandinavian speed machine.” That is because it is ideal for anyone who wants speed in their electric superyacht tenders. The design of this ship was based off the original diesel-powered Goldfish 23. However, in 2011, an electric version of the tender was created by the Scandinavians and ReGen Nautic. The final results were simply amazing. 

The Goldfish 23 eFusion can go up to 47 knots, which is the fastest speed on record for any electric superyacht tender in the world. The tender’s 194-horsepower UQM electric motor gives it the ability to go this fast. Not bad for a tender which has a 5.5-meter long body with twin steps. But its performance isn’t the only thing that makes it special. The center of gravity on the tender is quite low because of its immersed cockpit. This allows a capacity of up to 5 passengers and it keeps them comfortable and safe the entire time. Even when the seawaters get a bit rough, the passengers will still be comfortable. 

#3) Elektra from Patterson Boat Works

The Elektra, also known as the “wooden marvel,” features both a classic design and 21st-century boating technology. Patterson Boat Works is the British company which manufactured this electric tender. They gave it a stylish slipper design with woodwork comprised of three different types of wood; Douglas fir, English oak, and cherry. All the woodwork was crafted and polished by hand. The interior designs were all customized with handsewn upholstery which features various fabrics and colors to them. 

However, the real heart of the Elektra is with its revolutionary 121-horsepower electric outboard motor. According to Patterson Boat Works, the Elektra can get up to a speed of 30 knots. This can be done by getting extra power through the generator. This allows the Elektra to cruise up to 25 miles offshore so that you can drop the anchor in a quiet and peaceful spot on the water.

#4) Quadrofoil Q2S

The Quadrofoil Q2S is perfect for anyone who wants a “wild” superyacht. Coming from Slovenia, this electric tender has an original new design that is sure to impress anyone. The tender was first introduced in 2015 and it was designed to be very compact. Since it is only 3 meters long, it has enough capacity for just 1 passenger. This may not seem like a traditional tender, but it has 4 foils which are submerged which generate an amazing experience when you go from the ship to the shore. The maximum speed that guests can travel on this tender is 21 knots. 

The Quadrofoil Q2S is very lightweight and hollow inside. As a result, it only weighs about 100 kilograms. This makes it easier for the tender to go faster with its small 7.4-horsepower electric outboard motor. Plus, it is only powered by a 10.4-kilowatt-hour battery bank. This allows the tender to cruise as far as 62 miles offshore on a single charge to the battery. 

#5) Electric Boats Tenders The RHIB 4100

Offering a versatile platform, dedicated passenger or divers entry platform, plenty of deck room and a versatile interior layout for entertaining.

The covered roof means weather doesn’t bother this beauty.

The Herley 4100 RHIB can meet the demands of any adventure. Fitted with 600mm OD Hypalon tubes to provide an easy to use vessel whilst adding protection and safety.

Our Explorer is also a great larger option for day trips.

We can create a custom design to suit the needs of the owner. Our hulls are stable, efficient and reliable!

Talk to Sean to discuss your electric tender design needs. Or message Sean on Facebook

A short interview with Sean founder of Electric Boats:

Q.What inspired you to build electric boats?

A. We like building and operating boats and we wanted to be amongst the leaders in terms of doing our best to protect the marine environment.

Q. What are the most important considerations when buying an electrically powered vehicle/boat?

A. They cost more than a boat powered by a combustion engine. they have less maintenance and they are much cheaper to run.

Q. Where do you see the application of electric watercraft in the future?

A. It will start with short range vessels for pure electric. for longer range they will all need to be hybrids. Eventually range for pure electric will increase.

Q. What are the benefits of electric boats, short and long term for the environments and their owners?

A. Long term they are much better for the environment. Over life cycles of 10 to 30 years electric boats are much cheaper to own.

Q. What experience you have lends itself to creating electric boats?

A. I grew up on an Island. I rowed to school when i was young. I trained in the Navy as an electronics technician. I’m a skipper and an engineer and have designed and built a number of boats.

Oil spills on any scale destroy the insulating ability of fur-bearing mammals, such as sea otters, and the water repellency of a bird’s feathers. This exposure makes these creatures vulnerable to the harsh elements. Without this their natural ability to repel water and insulate from the cold, birds and mammals can die from hypothermia.

The process of cleaning themselves often means they ingest some of these contaminants which puts them at risk of poisoning.

Fish and shellfish don’t receive such an immediate impact  but can come into contact with oil if it is mixed into the water column. Adult fish may experience reduced growth, enlarged livers, changes in heart and respiration rates, fin erosion, and reproduction impairment when exposed to oil. It also adversely effects eggs and larval survival.

The oceans are becoming more acidic because they dissolve carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide to a much lesser degree. Researchers predict that within the next As ocean acidity increases carbonate ions decrease. Why are these ions important? Because shellfish, the shellfish we eat and that also feeds many of the species we consume as humans, lose their ability to make their shells. Crabs, shrimp, krill, oysters, mussels, scallops, crayfish, corals, the list goes on….are all affected by ocean acidification. Some researchers predict that by the end of this century, these creatures will not exist.

Watch this TED talk to learn about ocean acidification… https://www.youtube.com/embed/KJPpJhQxaLw”

Gasoline and diesel slicks spread much faster than oil itself, so even a small amount of bilge discharge multiplied by even a relatively small number of boats can disperse itself over a wide area.

Electric boats eliminate this risk completely, with zero contaminates in bilge water (apart from maybe a little sunscreen runoff from a fishermans legs and arms), you can do as many trips on as many days as you wish without having to worry about the pollution impact of your vessel on the environment.

When you think about refining process of crude oil to produce petrol, well it needs no explanation. We have known for decades that the environmental cost of this.

One environmental aspect that is largely overlooked with combustion engines, is noise pollution. We humans are so used to arriving at a place on our planet with all of the sounds and “noise” we create from talking to a running engine.

Wildlife are very sensitive to noise, mangrove dwelling birds may leave their nests to flee the sound of an approaching fishing boat. Little research has been done so far on the effects of engine sound beneath the surface of the ocean, however, here is a good article on the known negative effects of engine noise of the marine environment. https://www.marineinsight.com/environment/effects-of-noise-pollution-from-ships-on-marine-life/

So what if you have a vessel that is currently combustion engine powered?

Can you help to shift the balance by owning an electric powered boat? The answer is yes! Can you do this in a way that saves you money too? The answer is also yes!

Economy of Electric Boats

Whether your old engine is getting tired, or you just want to save money in the long run (and help the environment), it makes financial AND ethical sense to make the shift to electric boats.

1. You can convert most combustion power units to an electric power units without having to make huge adjustments to your existing engine bay. In fact, electric engines are often more compact.

2. Without many moving parts, they are also easy to work on and maintain.

3. The cost of fuel is minimal, you can charge your boat anywhere there is a power socket.

4. Sean and his team are committed to creating the best product possible, so they monitor and stay in touch with clients with any tweaks and updates available. The great thing is, electric engines are easy to add bells and whistles to, without having to adjust much.

And for non techy folks – (you don’t need to know how to tune your car to enjoy it, and an electric boat is the same) this also means that any improvements and updates that are available, you’ll get – maybe even by wi-fi so as technology advancements happen, your boat’s efficiency gets better and better over time.

Electricboats.biz conversions are one economical option for anyone wanting to swap out or replace an existing engine unit. Our factory build hulls are more efficient, yes, but Sean Kelly’s wealth of experience in boat building and in the marine industry has leant itself to creating the best of both worlds using electric energy in the most efficient ways possible.

If you are considering an electric power unit conversion or buying a new electric boats (see our range here), you can contact Sean with the form below, or by calling him on 027 588 8916