08 September 2022
At the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival, Axopar Boats together with the Norwegian high-performance electric outboard and inboard motors systems Evoy, presents an early-stage prototype that explores functional e-mobility in the future.
The project was initiated as a way for the companies to evolve in tandem with future solutions. The prototype marries the ultra-efficient and versatile Axopar 25 with the eco-friendliness of an electric outboard propulsion.
“Axopar is excited to join forces with innovators that challenge the ‘status-quo’ of the industry,” said Jan-Erik Viitala, Founding Partner, Axopar.
“Our partnership with Evoy is a perfect example of two great companies, on a joint mission, to expand the boating community and offer new ways of mobility for the future.
“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.”
There’s a demand for smaller boats with a reasonable range that are electrified and can be utilised all over the world, especially in regions where Internal Combustion Engines are restricted in use.
Axopar’s first step into the electric boat market offers all the comfort of a renowned Axopar 25, including overnight capabilities, a bathroom, fridge, sun beds, storage, weather protection with the T-top roof and canopies.
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.
For the first time together with Evoy, Axopar see within the foreseeable future, the feasibility of offering a credible and uncompromised solution for boaters, where a range of around 25 nautical miles per charge is achieved at cruising speeds in between 22 to 30 knots.
The Axopar 25 is one of the rare electric boats on offer that can be taken outside of sheltered waters due to its hull design and drivability, being one of the best in its size.
For the most comfortable ride in almost any waters, it’s crucial to be able to keep a stable speed of around 20 to 25 knots. Driving at lower speeds in choppy conditions usually results in an uncomfortable and wet ride.
Another feature that sets the Axopar 25 electric prototype apart is its impressive hull efficiency. Axopar hulls have improved with each generation, resulting in higher speed and an extended range with less engine power.
Combining this efficiency with an innovative electric engine showcases Axopar’s dedication toward creating the most comfortable drive, even in challenging conditions.
The prototype’s new Evoy engine – the world’s first 300 hp outboard electrical engine – proves that high speeds and electrification go hand in hand.
With low consumption, impressive torque and range, the engine is perfect for boat owners keen to go green and get every inch of speed from their boats.
The outboard motor runs on an 800 Volts current and is powered by two 63 kWh Kreisel batteries, enabling the prototype to reach top speeds of 50 knots or cover an impressive 25 nautical miles at 25 knots. The batteries can also be charged in just one hour.
Axopar will continue to further develop and refine its models for the future fleet. Once Axopar e-boats are ready for market launch, approximately eight to 12 months from now, they’ll have been further developed and optimised for electric propulsion to provide the best experience and efficiency, once the technology is thoroughly tested and proven.
“Until now, our boats’ unique features such as easy handling, multifunctionality and competitive prices have attracted experienced and new owners alike,” continued Viitala.
“The prototype for an electric day cruiser will interest and attract a new kind of customer and bring more people out on the water.”
For now, Axopar’s prototype represents a great leap forward for the company and the boating industry. Axopar is committed to its ongoing effort to innovate and electrify the boat segment in collaboration with industry leaders like Evoy.