Impact of electric outboard motors on the water sport sector in USA and Europe

 

Electric outboard motors have had a significant impact on the water sport sector in both the USA and Europe. Here are some of the key ways in which this technology is changing the industry:

1. Environmental Sustainability: Electric outboard motors are more environmentally friendly than traditional gas-powered engines. They produce fewer emissions and are quieter, reducing noise pollution in water bodies. As more people become aware of the impact of their activities on the environment, there is an increasing demand for eco-friendly water sports equipment.

2. Cost Savings: Electric outboard motors are generally less expensive to operate than gas-powered engines. They require less maintenance, and the cost of electricity is typically lower than gasoline. This makes them an attractive option for water sports enthusiasts who want to save money while still enjoying their favorite activities.

3. Increased Accessibility: Electric outboard motors are often easier to use than gas-powered engines, particularly for people who are new to boating. They require less effort to start and are generally quieter, making them less intimidating for beginners.

4. Better Performance: While early electric outboard motors had limited power, newer models are more powerful and can match or exceed the performance of gas-powered engines. This has opened up new possibilities for water sports, including water skiing and wakeboarding.

5. Regulatory Changes: Some regions have implemented regulations that limit the use of gas-powered engines on certain water bodies. Electric outboard motors offer a viable alternative that can help boaters comply with these regulations.

Overall, electric outboard motors have had a positive impact on the water sport sector in the USA and Europe. They offer numerous benefits over traditional gas-powered engines, including environmental sustainability, cost savings, increased accessibility, better performance, and compliance with regulatory changes. As technology continues to improve, it is likely that we will see even more widespread adoption of electric outboard motors in the water sports industry. PT04052023.

New Outboard Motors for the 2023 season

 The year 2023 brings exciting new outboard motors to the market, with innovative features and improved performance. The outboard motor industry is constantly evolving, and the latest models promise to deliver more power, efficiency, and convenience than ever before. Here are some of the top outboard motors to look out for in 2023:

    Yamaha V8 XTO Offshore:
    The Yamaha V8 XTO Offshore is a game-changer in the outboard motor industry. This model is designed for serious offshore boating, with up to 425 horsepower and a V8 four-stroke engine. It is also equipped with Yamaha's first-ever direct injection system, which delivers more power and fuel efficiency. The V8 XTO Offshore also has an integrated electric steering system, which provides precise control and handling.

    Mercury Verado 600:
    The Mercury Verado 600 is the most powerful outboard motor from Mercury Marine. This model has a supercharged V12-cylinder engine that delivers up to 600 horsepower. It also features an advanced digital throttle and shift system, which provides smooth and responsive control. The Verado 600 also has a new digital joystick control system, which makes maneuvering in tight spaces easy and convenient.

    Evinrude E-TEC G2 200 H.O.:
    The Evinrude E-TEC G2 200 H.O. is a mid-range outboard motor that delivers impressive power and efficiency. This model has a two-stroke engine that provides up to 200 horsepower, and it is also equipped with Evinrude's direct injection system. The E-TEC G2 200 H.O. also has a digital shift and throttle system, which provides precise control and easy operation.

    Suzuki DF350A:
    The Suzuki DF350A is a high-performance outboard motor that delivers up to 350 horsepower. This model has a four-stroke engine that is designed for smooth and quiet operation. The DF350A also features Suzuki's dual prop system, which provides better acceleration and top-end speed. It also has a digital throttle and shift system, which makes operation easy and convenient.

    Honda BF250:
    The Honda BF250 is a reliable and efficient outboard motor that delivers up to 250 horsepower. This model has a four-stroke engine that is designed for quiet and smooth operation. The BF250 also features Honda's variable valve timing and lift electronic control system, which provides improved fuel efficiency and performance. It also has a digital shift and throttle system, which makes operation easy and convenient.

In conclusion, the outboard motor industry continues to innovate and push boundaries in terms of performance, efficiency, and convenience. The latest models from Yamaha, Mercury, Evinrude, Suzuki, and Honda offer a range of features that cater to different boating needs and preferences. Whether you're a serious offshore boater or a recreational boater, there's a 2023 outboard motor that will meet your needs. With the right outboard motor, you can enjoy your boating experience to the fullest.

References:

    Yamaha V8 XTO Offshore. Yamaha Outboards. Retrieved from https://yamahaoutboards.com/en-us/home/outboards/v8-xto-offshore

    Mercury Verado 600. Mercury Marine. Retrieved from https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us/engines/outboard/verado/verado-600/

    Evinrude E-TEC G2 200 H.O. Evinrude Outboards. Retrieved from https://www.evinrude.com/en-US/engines/e-tec-g2/e-tec-g2-200-ho.html

   

What are Efuels - synthetics fuels

What are eFuels/synthetic fuels with references

eFuels, also known as synthetic fuels, are a type of alternative fuel that is produced through the conversion of renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power, into a liquid fuel. This process involves the production of hydrogen, which is then combined with carbon dioxide (CO2) captured from the atmosphere to create liquid hydrocarbon fuels. eFuels are considered to be a promising solution to the challenges of reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector and achieving climate goals.

One of the key benefits of eFuels is their potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector. According to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), eFuels have the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional fossil fuels (IEA, 2021). This reduction in emissions is due to the fact that eFuels are produced using renewable energy sources and do not rely on finite fossil fuel reserves.

Additionally, eFuels can be used in existing combustion engine vehicles without the need for significant modifications. This makes them a potentially attractive option for the aviation and shipping industries, which rely heavily on fossil fuels and have limited alternatives for reducing their carbon emissions.

However, the production of eFuels is currently more expensive than traditional fossil fuels, which is a significant barrier to their widespread adoption. According to a report by the European Commission, the cost of eFuels is currently around €2-3 per liter, which is considerably higher than the cost of traditional gasoline or diesel (European Commission, 2021). In order to make eFuels more economically viable, significant investment is needed in renewable energy infrastructure and technology, and policies such as carbon pricing and incentives may also be necessary.

Another potential challenge for eFuel production is the availability of renewable energy sources. The production of eFuels requires large amounts of renewable energy, which may not be readily available in all regions. Additionally, the production of eFuels may compete with other renewable energy applications, such as electricity generation, for limited renewable energy resources.

In conclusion, eFuels have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector and represent a promising alternative fuel solution. However, significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure and technology is needed to make eFuels economically viable, and the availability of sufficient renewable energy resources may be a potential challenge for the widespread adoption of eFuels.

References:

European Commission. (2021). Study on Synthetic and Bio-based Fuels: Carbon Savings and Feedstock Availability. Retrieved from https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/9875a5a5-c5e3-11ea-8c1f-01aa75ed71a1

International Energy Agency. (2021). The Future of Hydrogen: Seizing Today's Opportunities. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/the-future-of-hydrogen

National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2021). eFuels: Sustainable Liquid Transportation Fuels. Retrieved from https://www.nrel.gov/pv/efuels.html

A groundbreaking new outboard design from BRP (Bombardier Recreational Product) and Rotax

 New design Rotax outboard motor shaking the boating world

During a dealer conference of BRP in August 2022 they introduced to their audience a new and totally outside of the box thinking design of an outboard motor. The new design was shown in 3 new boats from the BRP portfolio of boating companies Manitou pontoons, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats.

In 2020 BRP announced that they would step out of the outboard motor business by abandoning the Evinrude brand they had taken over before when OMC was dissolved. The 52-year-old ownership of Rotax by BRP (1970 – 2022) has resulted in a totally new outboard engine design which we will explain in detail below the cut-away photo.

BRP-Rotax outboard engine

The BRP - Rotax new outboard motor completely redesigned, reimagined and rethought for its Manitou pontoons (20 – 26 foot), AlumaCraft and Quintrix boats with a 115hp and a 150hp versions in what they call Stealth Technology. They deliver the same advantages as the traditional outboard engines – such as price, performance, handling, ease of maintenance, and full trim plus, additional benefits: it’s hidden, it’s quiet and it’s efficient.

A 1.9 litre three-cylinder two stroke power head is shared by 115 hp and 150 hp

versions of the Rotax outboard, with the 150 hp gaining RAVE variable exhaust

ports. Both motors use the OMC E-Tec direct fuel injection system and are equipped

with power hydraulic steering.

The outboard motor cover is water-tight and secured with 15 bolts. Air enters the

engine through a tube routed into the boat transom. Injector oil is carried in a 15.9

litter (3.5-gallon) reservoir within the boat. Rotax says the motor weighs just under

227Kg (500 pounds). It mounts on a standard outboard transom and bolt holes and

has a 64 cm (25-inch) length. Rotax says the design is scalable to make more

power.

Partially submerged underwater, hidden under the boat, the engine is smooth and

quiet at any speed. It doesn’t block the view at the stern and frees up valuable space

on the boat. The New BRP/Rotax Stealth Technology outboard is efficient when

judging on the provided data in comparison with present traditional outboard

engines: 20% improved fuel efficiency – 12% reduction in reportable emissions with

a 98% reduction in CO2 at idle compared with other leading outboard engine brands.

The three boats from Manitou pontoon and the AlumaCraft and Quintrex boats have

been crafted for an optimal integration of the new Stealth Technology Rotax

outboard engine. Conveniently priced within their segments these new models for

the 2023 line-up will attract many new customers for a new boating experience.

Mercury introduces 4 stroke outboards

 New 4 stroke outboard motors from Mercury

The Mercury Marine division of Brunswick Corporation has introduced its next generation of 4-stroke outboards 25hp and 30hp. The outboards feature a three-cylinder, 500cc powerhead with electronic fuel injection. 

The electric-start models in 25hp and 30hp come standard with Mercury SmartCraft digital technologies, allowing boaters to connect to the most advanced digital gauges in the industry and to mobile devices through VesselView Mobile.

Specifications

The updated 25hp and 30hp outboards are ideal for 11ft-16ft V-bottom utility and aluminium boats, inflatable boats, 11ft-13ft composite and fibreglass micro-skiffs and shallow V-bottom boats. Additionally, the introduction of a 25hp ProKicker addresses demand for better trolling control for larger boats in the 26ft-39ft range.

For the brochure on the new 25 and 30 hp Mercury outboards got to below URL:

https://samerwebapp01apncus01.azureedge.net/mmgw-env-b/filer_public/4f/68/4f685a91-c67d-42a8-883f-aab39927f55e/8m0189947_25-30hp_fourstroke_ss_2.pdf  

Copy and Paste the above URL into your web browser. For cyber security reasons never click on a URL sent to you always Copy and Paste URL into your browser.

mtu POWER FOR NEW HARBOR TUGS

 

Small, but incredibly powerful: Two new harbor tugs soon to tow even the largest container ships into ports in Peru.

Everyone knows the biggest ships in the world -–the longest yacht, the most luxurious cruiser ship and the biggest container ship. On the high seas all is fine, but when these ocean behemoths approach port, they need help. To maneuver into harbour they rely on small, nimble and immensely powerful harbour tugs to tow them around. Two new such tugs are currently under construction at the Cheoy Lee shipyard in southern China and are scheduled to enter service with PSA Marine Peru in the ports of Peru in 2022 and 2023.

It's a fascinating sight as a small harbour tug, about 24 meters long and 11 meters wide, has a 300-meter-long and over 50-meter-high container ship on the end of a line, towing it into port. “The impression is somewhat deceptive,” explains Andreas Müller-Hirlinger, a harbour tug expert at Rolls-Royce Power Systems. The harbour tug isn't towing the ship into port, it's stabilizing it. Even so, the harbour tug – which looks small by comparison but seems huge when you stand beside it – needs loads of power to do its job. And this power is delivered by mtu Series 4000 engines.  

Extreme dynamics of the engines impress

These produce a full 2,240 kW in each of the two tugs Robert Allan design currently being built. Aside from pure oomph, a key feature of these engines is their power flexing capability. The high-revving 16-cylinder mtu engines with the type of designation '4000M63L' achieve their full power output in a matter of a few seconds, meaning they can accelerate extremely quickly and respond nimbly to the movements of the vessels they are maneuvering into the port.

The new harbour tugs have a bollard pull of 70 metric tons, meaning that the harbour tug has the same power it would take to lift 70 metric tons off the ground. The mtu engines do this by transmitting their power directly to two Schottel directional propellers below the waterline. One of the two harbour tugs is equipped with Schottel's innovative Sydrive-M system which combines two azimuth thruster propellers – one to port and one to starboard – in such a way that both props can be powered by just one mtu engine, reducing engine operating hours and thus maintenance costs, fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and other pollutants.  

e-Regatta during Venice boat show days June 2022

Venice boat show June 2022

During the Venice boat show June 2022 there where more than 4 electric driven speed boats on display including the one in the images below.

Source:

e-Regatta 2022 results and report from Venice Boat Show - Plugboats

Huracan motors Huracan Marine - Electric Motors (huracanpower.com) (who are big in both electric boats and electric motorcycle racing) joined in to work on the project and the result is a boat with a 15kW motor and battery that weigh under 200kg all in. Four boats were produced for e-Regatta 2022.

The first dual fuel hydrogen MAN engines in use on a work boat

 Retrofit of V12 marine diesel engine; 749 kW output; up to 80% CO2 reduction

On 10th May 2022, MAN Engines put its first two dual fuel hydrogen-powered engines for work boats into serial operation. These comprise two twelve-cylinder diesel engines of type MAN D2862 LE448, each with an output of 749 kW (1019 hp) at 2100 rpm. The engines are IMO Tier III-certified and equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust gas after-treatment system. Both V12 engines have been prepared for dual fuel operation by MAN Engines, and supplemented with a hydrogen injection system by development partner CMB.TECH. The low-emission engine is used on the world’s first hydrogen-powered crew transfer vessel (CTV), the “Hydrocat 48” from Windcat Workboats.

 

“What’s special about our technology is that we use a conventional diesel engine, which doesn’t need to be optimised for hydrogen,” says Werner Kübler, Head of Development at MAN Engines. A proven V12 marine engine is thus used in which hydrogen is introduced into the charge air via an adapter and is added to the combustion cycle. The combustion process is thereby started according to the diesel principle, which requires the injection of approx. 5% of diesel fuel. The diesel fuel common rail injection parameters have been optimised here for dual fuel operation. “MAN Engines has long-standing experience in the development of fuel-saving and reliable diesel engines, including for work boats. Building on this experience, we were also able to achieve the best consumption values in dual fuel operation, and ensure the same operating behaviour as displayed by diesel operation at full load. At the same time, we also reduce CO2 tailpipe emissions through the use of hydrogen by an average of approx. 50%, and even up to 80% as a peak value,” adds Kübler.

A further advantage of using the conventional and sophisticated diesel engine is the accustomed easy handling when it comes to maintenance and service. Moreover, pure diesel operation can continue without interruption if the hydrogen supply is exhausted, for instance. Availability, driving comfort and operational safety are thus always guaranteed at the high level that a traditional diesel engine is known for.

MAN Engines offers its customers and partners solutions like the “MAN Smart HYBRID Experience” hybrid system or engines for gas/electric drives, to contribute to CO2 reduction and sustainable shipping. Now that the MAN D2862 LE448 dual fuel engines for work boats are ready for series production, a further milestone has been reached to that effect. “By starting with dual fuel combustion engines, we can make hydrogen technology operational in the industry and kick-start further development of the technology, regulation, supply chain, etc.,” says Willem van der Wel, Managing Director of Windcat Workboats.

Source: MAN Press release.

 

Yamaha Motor Europe new collaboration with Windy Boats

 New collaboration in the sports cruiser market between Windy Boats and Yamaha Motor Europe

 

Yamaha Motor Europe has long been a dominant force in the global marine market, developing high-quality engines using the latest technology and finest materials available. Yamaha Motor has gained a reputation for delivering the best possible outboard engines to all users, whether aboard a large cruiser or small tender. Recent years have seen further technological developments evolve the brand from a marine engine manufacturer to a complete boating systems provider that delivers an end-to-end marine propulsion, control and information system to the user.  

The most recent announcement sees Yamaha Motor Europe confirm their collaboration with high-end Scandinavian boat builder Windy Boats, cementing Yamaha Motor's position as the brand of choice for boating systems in the sports cruiser market. This five-year partnership will see Yamaha Motor Europe and Windy Boats share expertise, as well as the supply of outboard engines for a variety of vessels.

 

Understated luxury, unquestionable quality

Established in 1966, the Windy Boats brand was created by Hugo Vold. Hugo, the son of a Norwegian fisherman, had an inherent understanding of and respect for the stormy waters around his hometown where his father worked. This understanding and respect for the ocean has been prevalent in the design and manufacture of each Windy boat, from the original 24 Cabin Cruiser, to the latest award-winning Sports Cruiser and SR lines. Today, every Windy product holds true to the original ethos, not just in the uncompromising standards and quality of the vessels, but also in the heritage integral to the brand’s name – Windy – named after Hugo’s father’s original and most trusted fishing boat, Vindy.

Having established a reputation for quality and endurance, Windy Boats has gone on to develop a wide range of vessels, each created for ultimate performance on the water and underpinned by values that users trust and remain loyal to. As a result, the multi award-winning brand is no stranger to having its products on the podium, most recently being shortlisted as finalist for Best Sports Cruiser (up to 45 ft) at the 2022 Motorboat Awards with the SR44 Blackhawk.

Under the new agreement, the SR44 will be available with Yamaha Motor’s flagship XTO 425hp V8 outboard engine, delivering incredible torque throughout the rev range, in addition to precise control and excellent efficiency from the direct injection, 5.6 litre engine. Windy Boat’s SR28 CC will also be available with a selection of Yamaha Motor's Premium and High Power outboards, including the latest 300hp V6, which will deliver exhilarating performance to this spacious 28 ft day boat.

 

A complete boat propulsion solution

Yamaha boating systems now feature updates that specifically aid use and maintenance for multi-engine set ups, essential for Windy Boats. The past 12 months have seen Yamaha Motor’s users enjoy even smoother and more controlled steering on large single-engine and multi-outboard vessels, following the launch of the new V6 300/250/225hp engines. This is thanks to the Digital Electric Steering (DES) that is now available across the Premium and High Power segments, from the XTO 425hp V8 to the 150hp outboard engines. DES ensures minimal steering feedback, which is perhaps most beneficial with larger, sports cruiser vessels with a high horsepower.

As Yamaha is now operating as a boating systems provider, users can benefit from a seamless boating experience, as Yamaha Motor’s innovative technologies span every touch-point from the controls to engines and gauges. Each element of the boat’s systems comes together in harmony to deliver unparalleled levels of comfort and control on the water. Owners can enjoy the exceptional quality of the Helm Master EX control system, with the joystick control, multi-function colour gauges, Steer-by-Wire and Autopilot among its many advantages. For a stress-free experience after returning to dock, Yamaha’s exclusive TotalTilt™ function allows complete engine tilt up at the touch of a button. This, combined with single-point freshwater engine flushing for multi-engine vessels, means that Yamaha’s V6 ranges allow captains to focus on their leisure time, knowing that their outboards have been maintained.

Partnering for the perfect user experience

One of the major advantages of the partnership for Windy Boats' users is the seamless integration onboard and a wider choice of options, from fully customisable rigging to colour co-ordination between boat systems and the rest of the craft.

Trevor Fenlon, Managing Director of Windy Boats explains,'WINDY has known Yamaha Motor for many years and we are very excited to work with the Yamaha engineering team once more to bring innovation to the water. We are proud to say that our all new WINDY SR44 SX will be powered by triple Yamaha XTO 425hp V8's, where we have already sold the first hull!'

The partnership enhances performance for users too. A vast wealth of knowledge is shared between partners during the design phase. Work such as extensive prop testing furthermore facilitates a superior overall performance in the finished vessel. What's more, users can tailor the vessel to their exact requirements.

Additionally, thanks to the installation training that Yamaha gives boat builders, they are ensuring that every feature is optimised for the best possible boating experience. The benefits of the partnership don’t stop once the boat is delivered. Industry leading after-sales support leads to global impact from a united partnership.

‘Like Yamaha Motor, Windy Boats is a truly iconic brand within the industry. Today’s announcement marks the start of Yamaha Motor Europe providing Windy Boats with the very finest technology in marine propulsion's systems, such as Helm Master EX control and the Premium range of outboard engines. Aligning these two strong and prestigious brands ignites a partnership that will offer the best of two worlds and we look forward to delivering a wonderfully unique experience to our customers.’ Fabrice Lacoume, Marine Director at Yamaha Motor Europe.

Yamaha Motor Europe and Windy Boats have much in common, with a shared passion for making every user experience enjoyable and intuitive. Yamaha’s reputation for quality and performance aligns perfectly with Windy’s superior designs and will support their commitment to maintaining the loyalty and trust of their users for generations to come.