The future is electric in the world of transportation. The automotive industry is currently undergoing its shift to a cleaner mode of propulsion, but there are other spheres where energy could prove beneficial. Road transport, for example, is part of the solution, as is the world of aviation. But what about the nautical world?
Well, it seems that there is a financial potential in this field since General Motors has just acquired 25% of the shares of the American company Pure Watercraft based in the Seattle area.
The company in question specializes mainly in the marketing of a kit that allows any small boat to switch to electric mode. Pure Watercraft is currently counting on this set combining an electric motor with a power of 34 hp and a lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 8.85 kWh. The American firm is going even further by partnering directly with the manufacturer of light boats Highfield to offer a “turnkey” solution for the amateur who does not necessarily want to modify his boat equipped with a gasoline engine. It is also possible to switch to electric mode for a pontoon or a fishing boat.
Although the package is not cheap at $16,500 (in U.S. dollars) for the motor and battery, Pure Watercraft defends itself by saying that this solution is quiet and good for the environment. What’s more, an electric motor requires no maintenance or special procedures for winter storage.
GM’s investment in this small company is a way to promote electric propulsion, but also an opportunity to work with a small manufacturer. This partnership could even lead to a joint project, such as a new boat. GM’s electric technology would be part of the discussions to be integrated into Pure Watercraft’s future boats.
