Electric Outboards
Electric outboards – what’s the state of play?
There is lots of talk about ‘going electric’ in the marine world and in everyday life, especially with rising fuel prices at the pump!
RYA Training are in the ‘early adopter’ phase with one or two clubs operating small powered craft on very sheltered waters having taken the first steps. They have re-engined just one or two in their fleet and are seeing how they get on. In the case of West Wilts Youth Sailing Association, they are working with the manufacturer to tailor the product for their usage.
I took a ride out with Phil Horton, RYA Sustainability Manager in his tender powered by an electric outboard to find out more.
I was impressed by how quiet the experience was, meaning that holding a conversation was at normal volume. I could see plenty of benefits to this in the training and coaching environment.
When you are not actively twisting the throttle, you are not using any energy, meaning that in the right conditions these small engines are very frugal. When the throttle was twisted, the take up was immediate. Phil’s outboard was easy to assemble and the removable battery even floats!
However, in anything other than a small tender outboard, the battery requirement would be much bulkier and more difficult to site in the powerboat. This could have significant stability implications. Expecting staff/ volunteers to lift such heavy items in and out of a boat for charging could prove challenging, meaning storage of the powerboats and siting of the charging facility should be front of mind.
Top Considerations
- What is the nature of the operating area?
- How exposed is it and is there any current to contend with?
- What speed do you need from a safety boat?
- How long are the sessions?
- How long will a charge last with your usage?
- Where are the safety boats stored – will this help or hinder charging points?
- How you define the use of powerboats, such as dedicated coaching boats, safety boats, support boats or committee boat, this may facilitate various power solutions.
Try before you buy. Invite manufacturers to your venue to test the engine in real life on your boat.
When testing, try to ascertain:
- How long did it take to get from one end of the operating area to the other?
- When operating a sole powerboat, is every part of the sailing area accessible within 3 minutes?
- Can you easily right capsized vessels using traditional methods?
- Is there a limit to the size of sailing dinghy it can right?
- What was the weather like on the test day – will it be harder if the conditions were different?
- How will the weight and size of the battery affect the trim and working space on the safety boat?
- Get the centre’s Chief Instructor Powerboat, and anyone who routinely helms a safety or rescue boat to join in the trials to get a feel for if it will be practical for your needs and when it comes to putting the money down, consider switching one engine to start with to see how it goes.
Official Innovation Partner – ePropulsion
We are pleased to announce that ePropulsion is now an Official Innovation Partner to the RYA. Specialising in high-quality, reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly electric boat motors, ePropulsion offers state-of-the-art solutions for today's marine needs. For more information, visit ePropulsion's website.