Electric Boats joined Oxford Cambridge Boat Race 2025
RAD Propulsion, Zero Marine and RS Electric Boats supported the Oxford Cambridge Boat Race 2025 by providing two Pulse 63 electric vessels, powered by RAD 40 drives, to serve as chase boats. The Boat Race 2025 took place on Sunday 13 April.
According to organisers, the choice of electric chase boat for the historic Oxford Cambridge Boat Race marks the event embracing greener technology.
The all-electric Pulse 63 RIB, powered by RAD’s RAD 40 electric drive system, were deployed on race day with a crew that included skippers, umpires, and 247.tv live stream camera operators. They were used for race support and escorting the competing teams.
Cambridge won the Men’s Boat Race by 5 and a half lengths in their sixth victory in seven years on Sunday (13 April).
Electric boats support the Boat Race
Dan Hook, CEO of RAD Propulsion, says: “This collaboration is just the beginning, which we hope results in seeing a growing number of electric vessels on the Thames in the coming years.”
“We are incredibly proud to see the Pulse 63 electric RIBs supporting such an iconic sporting event” says Alex Newton-Southon, CEO of RS Electric Boats. “Together we are demonstrating how electric propulsion can enhance performance and reliability while promoting cleaner waterways for future generations.”
Paul Clarke, CEO at Zero Marine, adds: “It is a privilege to support such an iconic race. We provide net zero marine services to clients in the construction and media industry. This is a great first step towards a more sustainable boat race and we hope more and more of the support boats will be electric in years to come.”
What is the Boat Race route?
The course, known as the Championship Course, is four miles long and stretches between Putney and Mortlake on the River Thames.
The current course was first used in 1845, but in 1846, 1856 and 1863 it was run in the opposite direction.
The 2021 race took place on the Great Ouse near Ely because of the covid pandemic.
