Plugboats Guide to Electric Boat Exhibitors – FLIBS 2023
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) begins Wednesday, October 25 and, like many other boat shows, has a growing list of electric boats and motor exhibitors, even though the focus is on large yachts, superyachts and ocean going speedboats that can be powered by as many as 6 fossil fuel outboards with 2,000 total horsepower – or more.
FLIBS will have more than 1,300 boats on display and 1,000+ exhibitors that sprawl over 7 locations: the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall Of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, 17th Street Yacht Basin, Pier 66 Marina, and Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South.
There were a handful of electric boat exhibitors last year, but the focus is on large yachts, superyachts and ocean going speedboats that can be powered by as many as 6 fossil fuel outboards with 2,000 total horsepower – or more.
The electric Hacker-Craft at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale Show
At last year’s show there were a handful of electric boat exhibitors, including the Hacker-Craft Sport with electric propulsion by Ingenity. This year there are more than 30 e-boat and motor companies, and there will also be electric boats on display at the booths and stalls of dealer and distributor exhibitors.
Here are some highlights of electric boating companies at FLIBS, and at the bottom of this page you will find a directory of exhibitors that have electric boats available. (Those products may not be exhibited at FLIBS, but you can certainly inquire about them.)
Candela electric hydrofoiling speedboats
Coming off the setting of a 24-hour range record for electric boats with their P-12 prototype and with news that production has begun on their C-8 ‘powered by Polestar’ electric daycruiser, Candela will be at Fort Lauderdale to show visitors the remarkable experience of an electric hydrofoiling boat.
The Polestar-powered version utilizes the same system as the Polestar 2, Standard range Single motor version EV, with 69 kWh battery pack and DC fast charging technology. This unique partnership unites the two Swedish premium electric companies’ efforts to accelerate the shift to more sustainable electric mobility.
Read: Candela shatters 24 hour electric boat range record
With the capability to cruise at speeds up to 27 knots and recharge its battery in only 35 minutes via DC charging, the Polestar powered C-8 boasts an electric range that is 2-3 times that of traditional powerboats, yet charges more rapidly.
The C-8 ‘powered by Polestar’ is available in three versions; as an open Daycruiser, a weather-sheltered Hardtop and a T-TOP model for sunny climates.
E-Machine single system propulsion, inverter, power control
A new innovation in alternative propulsion, the E-Machine from Scandia is a compact, modular solution with propulsion, inverter and power control unit integrated into a single system.
Depending on the application, the E-Machine can be mated to a Scania combustion engine for hybrid propulsion or directly to a gearbox for a fully electric system. The modular design allows for Scania to supply the necessary system components to meet the needs of almost any sized vessel. A single-source solution for boat builders.
Scania supplies everything with the electric power system allowing all components to work seamlessly together.
Elcat inflatable electric fun boat
Exhibitor gosun is best known for their state of the art solar ovens and other green tech. In 2023 they became the USA distributor for the European manufactured Elcat and Elcat Splash – electric inflatable boats – that use the catamaran design and light weight to create one of the world’s most energy efficient boats – that is also an incredible amount of fun!
At 15 feet long and 8 feet wide, 6 passengers can all have lots of space, especially when using the sundeck that can hold up to 150 lbs. The entire boat (without motor) weighs only 264 lbs. Elcat / Elcat Splash can travel up to 6 mph with the ePropulsion 1.3 kW electric motor and battery. Includes 200 watts of solar power to extend range. Ideal for families or for boat rentals companies looking for “the next big thing” in water toys.
Win an electric boat package from Elco, Whaly, Nautical Ventures and Rocket Trailers
One lucky FLIBS attendee will win a boat, motor and trailer combination in the EcoBoat Sweepstakes. Electric boat motor manufacturer Elco is celebrating its 130th anniversary by partnering with Nautical Ventures, Rocket Trailers and Whaly Boats USA on a package that includes an Elco EP-20TL with 10kWh lithium batteries, powering a twelve foot two inch Whaly 370.
The 8.4 kW outboard has thrust and power equivalent to a 20 HP gas unit, and the combination is perfect for a tender, lightweight fishing boat or six-passenger picknicker. When not in use, the boat will sit atop a premium aluminum Rocket Trailer. The package has a retail value of $20,850.
“While we’re looking forward to displaying the boat, motor and trailer at the show and talking to people about the benefits of eco-friendly boating, we’re especially excited to share the package with a fortunate FLIBS guest,” said Dean Heinemann, Elco Motor Yachts general manager.
To participate in the sweepstakes, show attendees need only to have their ticket scanned at the sweepstakes display.
ePropulsion unveiling new electric outboard
Leading electric boat manufacturer ePropulsion has been teasing something new on its social media for the past few weeks and a News Release says that on Thursday October 26 “ePropulsion CEO Danny Tao will launch the company’s latest electric outboard that will move them into a new, higher kWh category of electric propulsion.” The company will also have its full line of Spirit & Navy series electric outboard motors, the I-Series & H-140 electric inboard motors, and the Pod Drive Evo Series, along with the new E-Series & G102-100 batteries.
Fliteboard, Australian eFoil maker acquired by Brunswick
Multi-award-winning electric foiling board Fliteboard was acquired by Brunswick – one of the world’s biggest names in boats, motors, electronics and accessories – in September and will be showcasing its boards for the yacht owners (and others) who attend FLIBS. Fliteboard has won more than a dozen awards, including a Red Dot Best of the Best award (for product design) and a Good Design Gold Award.
Brunswick also owns Mercury, who launched their first 3 electric outboards this past year and says the purchase of Fliteboard allows it to further enhance the company’s electrification and shared-access strategies.
Dave Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation CEO, says “This gives us an opportunity to scale manufacturing and distribution and, over time, begin aligning sub-systems with our Avator electric outboard product line as we attract a new generation to electric mobility on the water.”
Forza X1 F22 electric monohull
After completing the latest beta test and sea trial on Lake James in North Carolina in September, Forza X1 will be showing its F22 center console monohull in Fort Lauderdale. The beta test validated results from earlier in the year when the F22 reached speeds of 40 miles per hour (35 knots) and operated for over six hours throughout the day, returning to the dock with 25% remaining on its 104-kilowatt hour twin pack battery.
Joseph Visconti, Executive Chairman and Chief of Product Development, says “The boat has been easy to use, gets on plane quickly, and demonstrates significant single-engine performance. The team is dedicated to delivering an innovative and eco-friendly product and these sea trials and tests are helping us achieve that.”
The Forza X1 will be at the Twin Vee booth in the Broward County Convention Center.
Greenline Yachts at the Bahia Mar
Greenline Yachts is one of the pioneers of electric/hybrid boating, founded in 2008. They offer the only complete fleet in the world that is available with conventional, hybrid or electric drive, and every model in the Greenline range is available with a fully electric drive system to provide silent, emission free propulsion and integrated energy management to run the boat’s domestic supply.
You can visit Greenline in the Bahia Mar Yachting Center to find out more about their 6 models: Greenline 39, 40, 45 Coupe, 45 Fly, 48 Coupe, 48 Fly and the brand new 58 Fly with electric cruising speed of 6 knots, a range of 30 nautical miles at that speed and an 11 solar panel array arranged across the flybridge and hardtop structures that produce 3.6kW peak.
Test drives of Orca electric jetskis.
The Orca personal watercraft features a powerful electric motor that can reach a top speed of 62 mph and offers up to 2 hours of fun on the water. The Performance model features a sheet-molded composite hull, an enhanced powertrain and 6th generation tractive unit. Extremely maneuverable and agile, it is perfect for thrill-seekers and water sports enthusiasts looking for a sustainable way to explore the world’s waters without compromising performance or power.
The company will be offering test rides at their booth in the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. Please note that you will need a valid boating license for the test ride and will be required to wear a life-vest and a neoprene wetsuit.
80 Sunreef Power Eco Sól – US premiere
The 80 Sunreef Power Eco Sól boasts the world’s biggest battery bank in the category of leisure crafts under 24m and the company says it is “the world’s most advanced electric luxury catamaran.” The battery set of almost one megawatt hour combined with composite-integrated solar panels gives 80 Sunreef Power Eco Sól e-motoring autonomy for close to 300 nautical miles. For longer journeys, the yacht’s owners can use the range extender, which will allow them to enjoy transoceanic range.
The solar panels are actually integrated into the hull’s composite material and the ‘solar skin’ is also on the bimini roof, and superstructure. Sunreef is renowned for its luxe interiors and features, and the 80 Eco Sòl boasts 4 luxury cabins and a customizable layout to accommodate eight guests.
Valo Hyperfoil revised design for Founders Edition
A ‘hyperfoil’ is a hydrofoiling personal watercraft that Boundary Layer Technologies began developing in the last months of 2022, when they pivoted from their original mission of bringing hydrofoiling to container ships. The Valo hyperfoil was launched only a few months later, in May of 2023 and the company will be at FLIBS to reveal the updated design of the Founders Edition. The company says this will incorporate engineering upgrades that increase power, reduce drag and increase handling capabilities considerably, while also adding to reliability and robustness.
Vision Marine’s and Four Winns team up with the H2e
Vision Marine Technologies will again be at Fort Lauderdale showcasing the E-Motion 180E electric outboard system used to set the electric boat world speed record of 116 mph speed as well as its own range of electric boats and other boats, like the Four Winns H2e.
Four Winns is known for manufacturing sophisticated and elegant bowriders and deck boats, and the H2e is the first all-electric, series production bowrider on the market. The H2e incorporates the 180E with 700V IP67 certified batteries and onboard charging system that combine for ease of use, lower running costs and quiet operation – even at full speed.
Voltari unveiling new permanent Fort Lauderdale showroom
At last year’s Fort Lauderdale show, electric speedboat Voltari kept a fairly low profile, using their (then) recently launched Voltari 260 as a tender to transport guests to and from the Bahia Mar Yachting Centre to the Sunreef Power Eco 60 moored at Pier 66. This year, they will be moving into their own permanent showroom and demo centre at Pier 66 in what they promise will be ‘an unveiling like never before.’
Wired high-power electric pontoon
One of the new boats sporting the Vision Marine Technologies E-Motion 180E electric outboard system is the new 23-R from Wired Pontoons. It’s a 23 foot tritoon with beam of 102″ that can comfortably hold up to 12 passengers. It has a top speed of 25 mph when powered by the 180E and is available with one of three battery packages: 43 kWh, 86 kWh and 129 kWh, with corresponding ranges of 55 miles, 110 and 165 miles at a speed of 5mph. They all make for a relaxing time on the water with family and friends with no noxious fumes to breathe in or combustion motors to shout over.
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Directory of Electric Boat Exhibitors at FLIBS 2023
The companies below all offer electric boat, electric motors and/or accessories and are listed as Exhibitors of the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. While they may not have electric models and products at FLIBS, they will certainly be open to inquiries.
Click any tile for company information and links.
Developed with key principles in mind; power, speed, and precision. Awake’s electric surfboards are built for superior acceleration, sharp corners and fast straights, giving the user an unparalleled riding experience.
Beneteau has been a pioneer for recreational boating from the outset. With its world-leading ranges and iconic products, nearly 45 models offer diverse, high-performance capabilities.
With one single idea in mind: innovating in terms of both boats and processes to enable as many people as possible to realize their dreams, making the avant-garde accessible.
At Cannes Yachting Festival of 2021 Beneteau announced its first entries into electric boating, with Jérôme de Metz, Groupe Beneteau Chairman and CEO, saying “There are new expectations and user habits, new ways of travelling and latest technologies: a new world of pleasure boating and marine leisure is coming into view on the horizon, and all of us throughout Groupe Beneteau are positioning ourselves to be the leading players in this new world.”
Hydrofoiling electric boats and ferries, made in Sweden.
Transforming transport on the water with technology; enabling electrification and vastly improving performance vs. combustion engines.
Our ultimate purpose is to speed up the transition to fossil fuel-free lakes and oceans by re-thinking efficiency in marine transportation to radically push the performance boundaries of electric boats and ships.
At Candela, we care about doing something good for the planet and all its species. Coming from 20 different nations, we share a conviction that kindness combined with deep knowledge in science, has revolutionary power.
Location: Lidingö, Sweden
Charting a revolutionary new course.
Quiet, efficient, and powerful, the Launch 25 GTe is an all-electric, zero-emissions concept boat that lets you hear more of what really matters, while still enjoying the legendary performance of a Chris-Craft.
FULL-RANGE HYBRID SYSTEMS FOR YACHTS
e-Motion is the only supplier of standardized hybrid propulsion systems that fit into the existing engine room of all serial production yachts from 40-250 feet.
The Trusted Solution for Electric Boating
By combining traditional and proven designs with trailblazing motor and control technology, Elco leads the industry in electric-propulsion. Boating enthusiasts trust Elco for its durable, powerful, safe and efficient motors that are built to the level of excellence that has guided the company for more than 125 years. Elco’s passion for electrifying the boating industry is driven by sustaining the excitement and lasting memories marine activities provide millions of families around the globe, and Elco seeks to heighten that experience with outboard and inboard electric and hybrid propulsion systems that provide quiet and clean power for those water-based activities.
Location: Athens, NY, USA
Electric boat motor for sailboats
ePropulsion electric outboards enable one-design sailboats to leave and return to the marina quick, silent and maneuverable. The hydrogenation and solar charging also allow sailors to travel further and sail sustainably.
Electric outboards for fishing boatsIdeal for both freshwater and saltwater, ePropulsion electric outboard motors are perfect for jon boats, aluminum fishing boats, bass boats and fishing pontoons.
Electric outboards for work boats
The electric outboard motor has a simple motor structure with much fewer components than gas engines. The quiet and exhaust-free experience also makes passengers comfortable onboard.
Electric outboards for dinghy and tenders
Our electric outboard motors make your boat trips comfortable, quiet and exhaust-free. Our maintenance-free designs save you time, money, and headaches.
China
The Fliteboard™ eFoil gives the sensation of flying over water. Fliteboard carves like a snowboard in fresh powder, but with the freedom to ride anywhere, anytime, without wind or waves. It’s fast, quiet, and emission free.
ABOUT FORZA X1
We are developing a fully integrated electric boat that is elegant, affordable, and ready to ride.
We are committed to the notion that affordable and stylish electric boats that do not harm the ecosystem is the future of recreational boating.The Forza X1 mission is to inspire the adoption of sustainable recreational boating by creating stylish and affordable electric boats for mass appeal. We believe that marine electrification is the future of recreational boating.
Forza X1’s founders have been designing and building boats for over 25 years. Our manufacturing knowledge is further enhanced by professionals with industry-leading skills in electrical engineering and software and controls. Engineered for oceans, lakes, rivers, and other waterways, Forza X1 boats are machine-tooled and assembled by hand by an experienced team of innovators and craftsmen
North Carolina, USA
Fountaine Pajot is working on the deployment of electric motors for its sailing catamarans. This project should see the light of day in 2022 with the installation of electric motors on the Aura 51, the new 51-foot catamaran designed by Fountaine Pajot.
The Four Winns H2e is the first, all-electric, series production bowrider on the market. This industry-leading move clearly positions Four Winns as an innovative pioneer with a clear focus on the refined customer experience.
“Just imagine jumping aboard your H2e, fully-charged and ready to go, from your trailer or private dock. No noise, no exhaust, no refueling, no hassle… just a rewarding day on the water,”
– Nick Harvey, Four Winns Brand Director.
The Garmin Force trolling motor has the power to move you from spot to spot more quickly and stand up better to winds and currents — and it’s still whisper quiet. The high-efficiency brushless motor operates at either 36 V or 24 V. When running at 24 V, it delivers comparable thrust to our competitors’ 36-V motors.
The GoBoat is a personal ‘donut’ boat made from our Aircore composite dropstich material and comes with a saltwater ready 35lbs thrust trolling motor with 5 speeds forward and 3 reverse.
We are USA Distributor and a Dealer for the Elcat Solar Electric Boat.
We are actively looking for more Dealers across the country AND Rental Fleet Operators.
The Elcat Electric Boat is the most energy efficient boat available for boaters. It’s patented, lightweight yet durable European construction allows it to glide on its catamaran rails. This Tough and durable DWF (double wall fabric) boat is lighter than carbon fiber. This solar boat weighs only 264 lbs. It can travel up to 6 mph with only 1.3 kW / 2 HP of power and is ideal for calm waters. For more speed or rough waters ask us about the Elcat Speedy.
RENTAL FLEET OPERATORS receive a free spare battery (value $1,150) with the purchase of an ELCAT Splash at $15,950 excluding shipping.
Click »» HERE for more information
With the introduction of the first hybrid boat in 2008, Greenline revolutionized the boating industry and ever since then the brand has been a synonym for constant innovation in boat building and design.
Our vision is to continuously shape the future of responsible boating by being the most innovative and responsible boat brand in the world.
Location: Begunje, Slovenia
Dealers located Worldwide
A NEW ERA, THE SAME LEGACY
Hacker-Craft has partnered with Ingenity Electric to bring a new line of the classic into the world of electric boats!
Our first boat is a Hacker-Craft 27′ Sport. With expected speeds of 30 knot top speed, 18 knot cruise, and a 2-3 hour runtime with a mixture of speeds, we are expecting a 30 mile range.
BUILT FOR SPEED AND LUXURY
Our goal is to provide our clients with only the best. We’ve adopted the international CCS charging standard for our new Aquavant by Hacker-Craft Electric series’s. The system can recharge as quickly as 1.5 hours at a high-capacity DC Fast Charger at a marina or on a superyacht. Perfect for your home lake or as a tender aboard your yacht.
The Next Hinckley Chapter: SilentJet Technology
After nearly two years of innovating, testing, and tweaking, meet Hinckley’s latest innovation: our trademarked SilentJet hybrid technology. Combining diesel and electric power, this industry-first fosters pinnacle moments with those you love in places you cherish. Making its debut on the Picnic 40 S—the only boat available with SilentJet—our new control system allows a completely seamless experience. No plug-ins. No diesel fumes. Only you. The water. And freedom.
MERCURY MARINE®
AVATOR™ ELECTRIC OUTBOARD CONCEPT.
Imagine. Boating – pure, simple, perfect. The Mercury Marine® Avator™ electric outboard concept explores boating at its essence. The Avator electric outboard concept from Mercury. A new way to Go Boldly.
Nautical Ventures is your official Electric Boat headquarters for Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. We can help you navigate the ins and outs of pairing the right electric motor to your electric boat. We’ve been helping boaters in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach stay on the water with trouble-free enjoyment for over 30 years.
Electric boating since 2009
Our corporate policy is to take great pains over building boats that enhance the relationship between boats, people and the environment. We have a vision; the increased freedom of people to move at will across the sea shall not be achieved at the expense of the environment.
We started our electric ambition already in 2009 and have had an electric powertrain as an option for three of our boat models since 2015.
Our E-power Concept, also known as “Environmental Power”, represents Nimbus environmental thinking for the future, in which we include the entire boat-building process from production engineering to climate-smart materials.
SAY develop ultra-light carbon fibre-based Super Sport Yachts. Backed by decades of boat-building experience combined with engineering know-how gained in the Formula 1 race car business.
Location: Wangen im Allgäu, Germany
We provide electric machines, batteries, and engines that span from 220 to 1,150 hp (162-846 kW) as well as instrumentation, aftertreatment systems, and other adjacent components. These can be combined with numerous transmissions, propellers, and reverse gears to create the most suitable power solution for a specific operation.
The Sunreef Yachts Eco are pioneering crafts leading the way in responsible boating by offering unique technology.
With a 360° approach to eco cruising, they offer cutting-edge electric propulsion, naturally-sourced sustainable materials, smart energy management and new technologies including a patent-pending solar skin produced in-house.
Profitable. Sustainable. Powerful.
Innovative hybrid and electric systems from Twin Disc support greener power transmission while delivering the reliability you expect from more than a hundred years of experience in the design of innovative power transmission products.
ELECTRIC PROPULSION
Peace and quiet on the water with only the sound of the waves. With the new E-LINE from VETUS you can enjoy nature at its best. Think of the noise level of a sailing boat with the manoeuvrability of a motorboat.
The E-LINE from VETUS is compact, complete, highly efficient, plug & play and suitable for both new builds and re-powering. The E-LINE drive works with the V-CAN bus system and meets all current and future emission requirements.
Netherlands
The E-Motion™ 180E Powertrain is redefining marine propulsion
116 MPH: THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND
THE WORLD’S FASTEST ELECTRIC BOAT
ELECTRIC – 180 HP
High-tech marine-designed motor, equipped with multisensor captors and independent cooling, providing the 180 horsepower.
Easy Charging Anywhere, Anytime
Onboard Charging System allows for quick and easy charging from any shore outlet, in or out of the water.
BUILT FOR MARINE
A purpose marine designed powertrain unique in the industry with high quality standards.
More than a powerful electric outboard, The 180E is a complete powertrain package
Discover the cutting edge of the E-Motion Technology
Boisbriand, Quebec
Canada
THE VOLTARI 260
Equipped with a 142 kW h Lithium-Ion battery pack system means long run times, unmatched torque, virtually no maintenance and zero emissions. Specifically engineered for the marine industry, this high output system is water cooled and backed by a 10 year warranty.
Whaly boats offer you plenty of boating fun at affordable prices! These extremely sturdy, double-walled boats are manufactured entirely out of plastic (Polyethylene), so they are low-maintenance, have very spacious interiors and are very safe.
CHANGING THE BOATING EXPERIENCE
PLEASURE
Unique and exciting way to explore the waterways without disturbing the peace and tranquility of nature
POWER
Make waves in silence as you explore the waterways with unparalleled power and sustainability
RESPECT
Respect the tranquility of nature while experiencing the ultimate pleasure on the water with our electric pontoons
Breathe…
Now imagine the pleasure of a family trip to a remote cove, the intense sensations of water skiing, the thrill of diving with friends, the joy of fishing… All those pleasures are yours with a Zodiac boat!
We share your pleasure and passion
for navigation and exploration. With a Zodiac boat you have a steadfast companion by your side while navigating seas all around the world. We will be there to escort you safely, whether you are an expert captain or if it’s your first time on the water.
Present in more than 50 countries around the world,
Zodiac Nautic and its 1,600 dealers will put their expertise at your service. Join the Zodiac Nautic community, a brand that has already impressed more than a million customers.
