A first electric prototype
More and more shipyards are experimenting with electric propulsion. The latest is none other than American Chris Craft, renowned for nearly 150 years for its elegant dayboats. At the Miami International Boat Show, he unveiled a prototype of the smallest model in his Lauch GT range, the Launch 25 GTe. This 7.81 m-long bowrider is powered by a 420 hp EVOA inboard electric motor, with sterndrive propulsion and a 133 kWh battery.
A significant weight gain
EVOA is one of the leading developers of electric propulsion systems for the yachting market in the USA. The shipyard claims a maximum speed of 43 knots and an approximate range of 2 hours at this speed. While the layout and dimensions remain the same as those of the combustion-powered Launch 25, the weight is increased by the addition of batteries. This electric model weighs 3,525 kg, compared with 2,753 kg for the conventional version.
Trials to validate future production
The Launch 25 GTe was built in partnership with Winnebago Industries Advanced Technology Group, to which the Chris Craft brand belongs. This is the first prototype, but the manufacturer is studying the possibility of a commercial version. A series of tests will first be carried out before series production is confirmed.
