Perhaps one of the most intriguing unveilings at Cannes was an early prototype of a new Axopar 25 that features electric outboard propulsion thanks to a partnership with Norwegian high-performance electric outboard and inboard motors systems specialists Evoy.
”We see electrification as a future complement to the industry where Axopar is in the forefront of innovation. We want to be part of evaluating future trends and technologies whatever they might be. At the same time, it is good for everyone to be reminded of today’s limitations and challenges in electrification of boating. This is thus a long-term project that will demand big investments in infrastructure and sustainable cost-efficient solutions for e-mobility to get a strong break through,” said Viitala, CEO of Axopar.
Axopar sees that there is a demand for smaller boats with a reasonable range that are electrified and can be utilized throughout the world. Especially in regions where Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) are restricted in use.
Axopar says its first step into the electric boat market offers all the comfort of a Axopar 25, including overnight capabilities, toilet, sink, fridge, sunbeds, shower/storage, weather protection with the T-top roof and canopies. The builder claims it is the only fully-electric boat that boasts all these features combined into one and is miles ahead of any other electrical boat on the water. Both the Axopar 22 and 25 were developed with e-mobility in mind and are optimal for electrification due to the models’ efficiency, weight, balance and modular construction.
Axopar says that it sees within the foreseeable future, the feasibility of offering a credible and uncompromised solution for our boaters, where a range of around 25 nm/charge is achieved at cruising speeds in between 22-30 knots.
The prototype features a new EVOY engine –the world’s first 300hp outboard electrical engine – that runs on an 800 Volts current and is powered by 2 x 63 kWh Kreisel batteries, enabling the prototype to reach a top speed of 50 knots or cover 25 nautical miles at 25 knots. But that’s not all. The batteries can be charged in about one hour.
Axopar says it will continue to further develop and refine its models for the future fleet. Once the Axopar e-boats are ready for market launch, approximately 8-12 months from now, they will have been further developed and optimized for electric propulsion. This, Axopar says, is in order to provide the best experience and efficiency, once the technology is thoroughly tested and proven.
