Top e-boats crowned

The Gussies Electric Boats Awards for 2023 have been announced.

02 November 2023

After voting by the public and an International Judging Panel of 25 electric boat experts, the 2023 Gussies winners have been recognised as the best representatives of “excellence in electric boats and boating”.

Now in their fourth year, the awards are organised by electric boat website Plugboats.com.

The awards are named after Gustave Trouvé, the French inventor who decided the best way to work on the electric motor propelling his prototype boat, Le Téléphone, along the Seine in 1874 was to devise a detachable unit so that he could tinker with the motor in his shop at home. It was the birth of the outboard motor.

Now, in 2023, more than 160 boats from 25 countries and every continent except Antarctica entered The Gussies and carry on his legacy.

“Congratulations go not just to our winners but also to all of the designers and builders and technicians and everyone involved in bringing these boats to life, and for helping to grow electric propulsion everywhere,” organisers said of this year’s entries.

The Axopar 25 is one of the rare electric boats that you can take outside of sheltered waters due to its hull design.

The NERO777 Evolution was recognised for outstanding design, state-of-the-art technology and craftsmanship.

The ZEN50 solar- and wind-powered bluewater catamaran is energy self-sufficient.

The Soel Senses 62 is a cutting-edge solar electric yacht that seamlessly combines luxury and sustainability.

Winners included the following vessels.

Production Electric Boats: Up to 8 metres/26feet

Axopar 25e, Axopar, Finland

For the most comfortable ride in almost any water, it is crucial to be able to keep a stable speed of around 20-25 knots. Driving at lower speeds in choppy conditions usually results in an uncomfortable and wet ride.

The Axopar 25 is one of the rare electric boats that you can take outside of sheltered waters due to its hull design, drivability and impressive hull efficiency enabling higher speed and  extended range with less engine power.  Combining this efficiency with an innovative electric engine showcases Axopar’s dedication towards creating the most comfortable drive even when presented with challenging conditions.

Concept/In Development Electric Boats: Up to 8 metres/26 feet

NERO777 Evolution, NERO Yachts, Germany

The founders of NERO Yachts see themselves not just as yacht builders, but as creators of unforgettable experiences, embodying a harmonious combination of speed, luxury and incomparable comfort.

The NERO777 Evolution is the impressive result of their passionate dedication to innovation and perfection, where elegance and performance find their perfect symbiosis. The NERO777 Evolution reflects this essence in its purest form with outstanding design, state-of-the-art technology and masterful craftsmanship.

This masterpiece symbolises the future of water sports and heralds a new, exciting era. The NERO777 Evolution, sets a milestone that reflects a passion for innovation and perfection.

Production Electric Boats: Over 8 metres/26 feet

ZEN50, ZEN Yachts, Spain

The ZEN50 solar- and wind-powered bluewater catamaran is absolutely energy-self-sufficient and does not require any fuel on board. She is capable of sailing 24/7 at 6 to 10 knots continuous cruising speeds with a top speed of 14 knots.

This unique performance is achieved with lightweight racing carbon-fibre hulls combined with a 90-square-metre solar roof, for an unrivalled 17 T displacement to 17 kW solar power ratio of 1:1. The ZEN50 is the world’s first series production yacht equipped with the Oceanwings© wingsail by Ayro. This revolutionary yacht opens new horizons to 21st-century nautical explorers.

Concept/In Development Electric Boats: Over 8 metres/26 feet

Soel Senses 62, Soel Yachts, The Netherlands

The Soel Senses 62 is a cutting-edge solar electric yacht that seamlessly combines luxury and sustainability. With its innovative design, it harnesses the power of solar energy to offer emission-free cruising, making it an eco-friendly choice for discerning travellers.

The yacht features spacious and elegant interiors, offering a comfortable and stylish experience for passengers. Its solar panels are strategically integrated into the design, enabling the yacht to generate its own clean energy and reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.

The in-house developed solar electric propulsion system has undergone over 16 years of rigorous testing, ensuring exceptional performance and reliability.

The full list of award winners and nominees is available here.

plugboats.com