POWER & PROPULSION
Electric boat speed record attempt Two industry stakeholders aim to break the electric boat top speed world record. Vision Marine Technologies will partner with Hellkats Powerboats to rig a Hellkats 32' Super-Sport Widebody Catamaran with a twin application of its E-Motion powertrain system. “My team and I are extremely excited to partner with Hellkats. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase the capability, reliability and power of our E-Motion powertrain,” stated Alexandre Mongeon, co-founder and CEO of Vision Marine. November launch This limited edition Fulgora I is scheduled to be on the water in November 2021. The top speed of the vessel is expected to surpass 100mph (160 km/h). Center Console Only (CCO) intends to document the process, ranging from manufacturing the boat, installing the technology, and filming the event. After the event, the Fulgura I will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to select charities t ied to furthering the awareness and clean-up of waterways globally. “Vision Marine has always been dedicated to lessening reliance on fossil fuels. This is yet another way for us to help keep our waterways pollution free for future generations," added Alexandre. 18 | JULY 2021
A retrofit of a Waterworld electric engine is underway on a 38ft classic wooden gentleman's launch. Henley Technical Services is undertaking the work on Tarbes II which has recently been refurbished at Michael Dennett Boatyard in Chertsey. Henley's Steve Hoile, who is installing the new engine, has worked closely with the owner to ensure the right system is delivered. “The owner will be using the boat for day cruising on the Upper Thames and my key consideration is always to ensure there is no 'rangeanxiety' whilst owners are out and about enjoying their journey,” he said. The Waterworld Electric Engine System from Energy Solutions combines Waterworld 48 volt DC electric motors with a Victron Energy battery bank and monitoring system. The engines are designed to be a direct replacement for a
Photo: Energy Solutions
WATERWORLD ENGINE RETROFIT
8 Waterworld's electric engines are designed to replace diesel engines on narrowboats, inland waterway fleets and small coastal craft
traditional diesel engine both in size and cost and are suitable for boats up to 15 metres and larger canal craft. Range and power “The 10kW WaterWorld motor combined with a
substantial battery pack will deliver both range and plenty of extra power for manoeuvring and emergency stops," added Steve. "The owner will be able to cruise for eight to ten hours a day at just under the Upper Thames
speed limit of 8kmh, with no concerns at all.” Energy Solutions is the UK distributor of Waterworld motors which are available in 4k, 10kW and 15kW options, as well as the UK's leading distributor of Victron.
HYBRID PROPULSION HAS POTENTIAL With its electric drive systems now powering a range of vessels and special projects, Fischer Panda UK says its custom designed solutions prove the potential of hybrid propulsion for a range of applications, including ocean crossings. The company's electric systems can be charged by wind and solar energy with diesel generators installed as back-up. The installation of equipment such as the 48V Fischer Panda 20kW 600rpm Easybox shaft motors and 48V DC generators form hybrid propulsion systems which provide speeds up to 10 knots and demonstrate the possibilities of creating various solutions. “From sailing yachts
8 Hybridisation offers a range of benefits
to narrow boats, to motorboats, hybridisation to power the boat is a viable solution that offers a range of benefits,” said Robert Tuck, marine sales executive, Fischer Panda UK. “Hybrid power can
reduce emissions as well as drive-up efficiency, plus the systems have a compact footprint due to the use of integrated variable speed generators producing only the power required.” He added: “There continues to be an increase in interest and enquiries about hybrid electric and we expect to be designing more systems
for special projects as well as supplying full-package solutions to coastal commercial and leisure vessels, and even oceangoing boats and ARC participants.” Fischer Panda UK's systems can combine two or more energy sources for producing power - traditional power generation, such as a diesel generator, alongside renewable power sources, including solar and/or wind.
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