Highfield Boats reveals two electric tenders
Highfield Boats has revealed two new electric tenders with two different partners, ZeroJet and ePropulsion, at boot Düsseldorf.
The prototype EJET330 tender is powered by an electric jet propulsion system, developed by ZeroJet, a New Zealand-based electric jet systems specialist. It has no propeller to worry about, so can be used in very shallow depths and is easily beached. Its low profile means it works with compact storage on-board in tender garages.
At 3.36 metres long and 1.82 metres wide, and with a 15 degree deadrise, the tender weights just 225kg total including FCT console wheel steering and system. It features a 10.8kWh battery and 15kW of power, equivalent to 20hp. The boat can reach 25 knots maximum speed and can cover 12 miles at 14 knots.
To make this happen, the two companies say they have combined Highfield’s performance and strength with ZeroJet’s efficient and powerful electric system.
Mathilde Delfour, Highfield’s European MD, sees the partnership as an important step into sustainable boating and the future of the marine industry. She says she’s glad the company’s extending its zero emission offering with the first electric jet propulsion system.
“Partnering with Highfield, such a prominent boat builder, helps to accelerate the industry towards an electric future and provides customers with RIBs which are fun, safe and sustainable,” says Neil Mans, ZeroJet CTO & co-founder. According to Mans, ZeroJet invests heavily in research, design, development and testing to achieve the high-quality standards required to operate in harsh marine environments and for maximum efficiency.
Meanwhile, Highfield Boats chose ePropulsion’s Navy 6.0 Evo outboard for its other new electric tender the Classic 340 E which enjoyed its world premiere earlier in the show. The Navy 6.0 Evo has a brushless direct-drive motor. The tender’s 3.4 metres long and 1.7 metres wide, and is said to comfortably carry five people. Its full length keel guards, and double decked floor, make it ideal for beach-hopping days with friends and family, says Highfield.
“We are excited to be part of the rise in more sustainable boating. The partnership between Highfield and ePropulsion will bring a new eco-friendly option to the marine market, expanding the opportunities for boaters to go zero emission. We look forward to working with Highfield continuously on the electrification of boats to meet a range of market needs,” says Danny Tao, co-founder and CEO of ePropulsion.
