Torqeedo, the German manufacturer of electric outboards whose name seems to be missing a "u", has a new battery to power its 80-horsepower electric outboard.
The company recently announced a partnership with Johnson Controls to modify an automotive drive battery from a plug-in hybrid to power Deep Blue-equipped boats. The marine-ready battery is waterproof and resistant to salt water, and is guaranteed for nine years. In addition to the batteries and electric motor, Torqeedo's Deep Blue comes equipped with a GPS system that calculates remaining battery life, predicting range and directing captains to waypoints where the batteries can be recharged.
It's a major step forward for Torqeedo. They're already well-known for low-powered electric outboards, but Deep Blue proves that a battery-powered boat could be a viable option for some serious marine applications. Because the electric powerplant isn't cheap — it's expected to cost over $23,000 for the outboard alone, plus between $36,000 and $73,000 for batteries depending on their capacity — it's initially being marketed only to commercial users.
It's not as fast as the outrageous AMG cigarette boat, but it certainly has its niche. For businesses whose fuel costs top $5,800 per year, Torqeedo founder and CEO Dr. Christoph Ballin says a switch to Deep Blue could be a source of savings.
"If they do, the change from petrol to electric motors could mean these users can start saving money today," he said. "The fact that the electric motors are naturally environmentally friendlier and future-oriented, as well as much quieter is a bonus."
Depending on which battery capacity they choose, customers would see the system pay for itself within 10 to 17 years in fuel costs alone, and that's not accounting for maintenance savings.
Additionally, the boat could be a boon for sensitive waterways where gas-powered outboards are prohibited. According to Torqeedo, serving such a small market "hardly justifies the industrial development and production" of a dedicated electric outboard. While Deep Blue wasn't developed exclusively for such markets, it'll be a perfect fit.
The marine industry appears to have taken notice. In February, Deep Blue won the National Marine Manufacturers Association's Innovation Award at the Miami International Boat Show in February. It also won the 2012 DAME award for design at the METS marine trade show.
Photo: Torqeedo
