Elvene is showcasing its new electric solar boat AMY at the "Nice Boating Tomorrow" trade fair in Nice. According to the manufacturer, the model, which was developed and built in Finland, can reach a top speed of 30 knots. At its centre is the 50 kW ARIES outboard from Molabo (Germany), which is based on touch-safe 48-volt technology. At a cruising speed of 20 knots, Elvene claims a range of 35 nautical miles. The boat is 6.5 metres long, 2.1 metres wide and weighs from 700 kilograms. The battery capacity is 45 kilowatt hours; up to 66 kilowatt hours are available as an option. The integrated solar system delivers between 800 and 1,300 watts. In solar-powered driving mode, the system enables an unlimited range at speeds of up to five knots.
48-volt technology differs fundamentally from high-voltage systems. Maintenance and service do not require any special tools, training or additional safety measures. "Projects like this show what is possible today with low-voltage electric drives," explains Adrian Patzak, COO of Molabo. "Delivering 50 kW at 48 volts allows boat builders like Elvene to deliver high performance without the complexity, cost and safety requirements of high-voltage systems - opening the way for scalable, user-friendly electric boats." The system utilises LiFePO4 batteries and is supported by Victron energy storage technology. A three-kilowatt shore power charging unit is available as an option.
Unlike conventional electric boats, AMY can cover its energy requirements at low speeds directly from the sun's rays. This significantly reduces or completely eliminates dependence on charging points on land. At low speeds, Elvene specifies a range of over 100 nautical miles. The CE category C6 allows it to be used in coastal waters.
The boat is aimed at different user groups. Charter fleets benefit from less dependence on charging infrastructure. Boat-sharing platforms can integrate the model into their fleets. The standard equipment includes an integrated infotainment system, a chart plotter with depth sounder, a wireless charging function for smartphones, a Bluetooth stereo system, natural cork flooring and a modular layout. A refrigerator, canopy, searchlight and fresh water shower are optionally available.
Elvene is based in Jakobstad on the Finnish coast. The town can look back on centuries of boatbuilding tradition. Centuries ago, wooden ships were built here for use all over the world. Today, some of the most renowned sailing yachts have their origins in this region. Elvene combines this heritage with electric propulsion technology. Molabo was founded in 2016 and is based in Ottobrunn near Munich. The company develops and produces electric drive systems based on 48-volt low-voltage technology.