Electric Mastercraft Prostar!

⚙️ ELECTRIC OUTBOARD

ExploMar, established in 2021 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, specializes in high-performance electric outboard motor systems aimed at promoting sustainable water mobility. The company offers a range of electric outboard motors under its WAVE series, designed to cater to various boating needs.

The WAVE 70+ model delivers a peak power of 108 horsepower and is suitable for boats ranging from 4 to 6 meters in length. It is paired with a 40 kWh battery, and the entire system weighs approximately 350 kilograms. For mid-sized vessels between 6 to 8 meters, ExploMar provides the WAVE 150+ and WAVE 300 models. The WAVE 150+ offers a peak power of 200 horsepower, coupled with a 125 kWh battery, and the system's total weight is around 924 kilograms. The WAVE 300 delivers 300 horsepower, with battery options of either 125 kWh or 240 kWh, weighing approximately 938 kilograms and 1,218 kilograms respectively. For larger boats measuring 8 to 15 meters, the WAVE 300 Twin system combines two 300 horsepower outboards, achieving a total of 600 horsepower. This system comes with dual battery configurations of either 250 kWh or 480 kWh, with weights of 1,876 kilograms and 2,436 kilograms respectively.

In addition to their propulsion systems, ExploMar offers battery options utilizing high-energy-density NCM cells and semi-solid-state technology. These batteries are designed to provide long-range operation and are adaptable to various temperature conditions, ensuring consistent performance across different environments.

In July 2024, ExploMar delivered its first 300 horsepower twin electric powertrain system to an Italian client, marking a significant milestone in the marine industry's shift toward electrification. The system was installed on an 11-meter rigid inflatable boat, which successfully reached speeds of 38 knots during sea trials. This achievement underscores ExploMar's commitment to advancing electric propulsion technology and its capability to meet the demands of high-performance marine applications.

Furthermore, in December 2024, ExploMar announced a strategic partnership with a leading Chinese outboard motor dealer, securing an order for nearly 100 electric outboard units. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of zero-carbon water transportation in China, reflecting the growing demand for eco-friendly marine solutions.

ExploMar continues to expand its global presence, delivering electric outboard systems to countries including Italy, the Netherlands, and China. The company's focus on integrating advanced technologies, such as axial flux motors and steer-by-wire systems, positions it at the forefront of the marine electrification movement, offering efficient and sustainable propulsion solutions for a diverse range of boating applications.

🌊 RECREATION

NT Systems, a Slovenian company, specializes in high-tech marine propulsion systems and electrical engineering solutions. Their compact, turnkey electric propulsion systems cater to both commercial and leisure vessels, offering continuous power outputs from 40 kW to 450 kW. These systems are designed for easy installation, low maintenance, and compatibility with various drive units. Each propulsion unit comes pre-assembled, incorporating an electric motor with a built-in thrust bearing, motor controller, electronic control unit (ECU), and a cooling system, ensuring a high power-to-weight ratio and efficient performance. The propulsion systems support both direct drive and gearbox configurations, allowing customization based on specific vessel requirements. For applications requiring higher power, multiple motors can be installed in tandem, achieving outputs up to 1,800 kW.

In September 2024, NT Systems announced the development of a 7.3-meter carbon fiber speedboat designed to showcase their electric propulsion technology. This vessel accommodates up to four passengers and features a sunbathing area, swim platform, and an integrated bimini for shade. The boat is powered by NT Systems' C80 direct drive electric motor, which delivers 80 kW of continuous power, 238 Nm of continuous torque, and 336 Nm of peak torque at a nominal speed of 3,200 RPM. The propulsion system operates at 400 VDC, measures 529 mm in length, and weighs 71 kg. The vessel includes NT Systems' side-mount throttle lever and a 10-inch multifunction display (MFD) with digital switching capabilities. The throttle lever features built-in NFC technology, allowing users to unlock and start the propulsion system with a keycard tap, eliminating the need for a traditional ignition switch. The MFD provides propulsion interface, navigation, multimedia functions, and controls for the boat's systems through a touch-operated screen, removing the need for physical buttons on the console. The boat is equipped with a 47 kWh battery pack weighing 260 kg, supporting the CCS standard for fast charging, which enables an 80% charge in approximately 45 minutes. In February 2025, the company reported successful buoyancy tests at full weight on local lakes, confirming their design calculations. The project is progressing toward completion, with NT Systems aiming to demonstrate the capabilities of their electric propulsion systems in real-world conditions.

🏄🏾‍♂️ ELECTRIC WATERSPORTS BOAT

Action Water Sports has introduced its first electric ski boat, powered by EVOA's propulsion system. This marks a shift in the watersports industry toward sustainable alternatives. The boat will be showcased at the Grand Rapids Boat Show, providing insight into the future of electric-powered towboats.

The boat features EVOA’s Gen 2 propulsion system, integrated into a MasterCraft ProStar. The configuration allows for direct drive performance without modifications to the hull. EVOA's propulsion system provides 582 ft. lbs. of torque and 270 horsepower, designed to deliver a responsive and efficient experience for both recreational and competitive skiing.

Technical specifications include a 61 kWh battery with a Level 2 charging time of 3.8 hours and a DC fast charge option reducing charging to 36 minutes. The boat has a dry weight of 3,650 pounds and can accommodate seven people. Its top speed reaches 41 mph, maintaining performance comparable to traditional gas-powered models. Testing and validation for this propulsion system are ongoing, with an expected commercial launch in 2026.

EVOA specializes in high-performance electric propulsion technology. The company focuses on delivering efficient, sustainable alternatives for the marine industry. By integrating advanced battery and motor technology into existing boat designs, EVOA aims to transition traditional powertrains to electrified models without compromising performance.

Action Water Sports has been a leading MasterCraft dealer for over 30 years, with locations in Michigan and Florida. The company has expanded its focus to include electric propulsion solutions, aligning with the industry's shift toward sustainability.

The Grand Rapids Boat Show will serve as a platform for EVOA and Action Water Sports to highlight advancements in electric propulsion. This unveiling signals a step forward in making electric towboats a mainstream option for watersports enthusiasts.

🖌️ SOCIAL MEDIA POST OF THE WEEK

The team at Genesis Marine posted a first look at their hybrid wakesport boat! They also mention a March 15, 2025 potential launch date. Technical issues prevent linking directly, so here is a hyperlink to their post. We’ll be following the launch news closely!