We saw it aboard a boat at the Dusseldorf Boat Show and were fascinated. We are talking about the new electric motor with Saildrive from Torqeedo.
And yes, because we have become accustomed to seeing electric outboards but not to thinking about a main propulsion without an internal combustion engine. Instead, the world of electric propulsion is making great strides. Already today one can mount an inboard electric thruster with saildrive with power ratings from 10 to 25 kW-that is, comparable to conventional motors with 20 to 40 hp.
The whole weighs from 9 to 27 kg depending on the power with a 24- or 48-volt power supply. Coupled with a folding-blade propeller it minimizes friction, and if you then add the hydro-generator function (recharging with the propeller turning when sailing) energy autonomy is a reality.Coupled with lithium batteries the space and weight gained over a conventional motor is enormous. The Cruise FP starts at about 3,200 euros and goes up to about 7,000 euros. www.torqeedo.com – Commercial Selva
