Mission Statement:
Newport Electric Boats is on a mission to provide sailboats with high quality, powerful, quiet, zero-maintenance, and environmentally friendly electric propulsion systems. We strive to maximize high quality implementations of zero emissions propulsion systems for boats. This includes sailboats, harbor cruisers, and small power boats used in near-shore applications where BEV propulsion is effective.
Sailing with clean energy is now feasible for large sailboats
Electric propulsion provides many hours of motoring. While traditionally sailboats of 30 feet or more have relied on diesel-powered engines to produce the necessary thrust, electric motors are emerging as a clean, quiet, and low-maintenance solution. In the past, diesel or gasoline engines were the only practical options. However, with the development of highly efficient electric motors, and greatly improved batteries, sailboats can now have a powerful, silent, and odorless propulsion system that provides a more environmentally-friendly sailing experience. The peace of mind that comes with knowing the entire journey is clean and sustainable is truly invaluable.
Electric Drive over Gas and Diesel:
- Sailboat engines are often times in service for decades, require significant maintenance, and emit harmful toxins from exhaust
- These engines leak oil, fuel, and typically have a “wet exhaust system” which literally runs the fresh sea water through the engine exhaust system before returning it to the sea
Now, sailboats have a clear and practical path to convert from diesel to electric
Sailboats are not entirely reliant on their propeller for long-distance propulsion, as they can harness the wind using their sails. When the wind is weak or absent, electric propulsion can keep the sailboat moving for extended periods of time. However, like other resources on a sailboat, battery power must be monitored and managed throughout the sailing journey. For short trips and coastal cruising between marinas, sailing with electric propulsion produces zero emissions and offers a clean and noiseless experience. For longer journeys, alternative recharging methods such as onboard generators may be required.
With our Electric Vessel Monitoring System (EVMS), sailing electric becomes even more enjoyable. The system allows you to review previous journeys and view details such as battery charge levels, speed traveled, and motor power usage at each point along the way. As an example, below are some screenshots from a sailing trip in April 2022 that went from Newport Beach, CA to Long Beach, CA.
A direct drop-in replacement for diesel engines.
The 3D models to the right show an overlay of a 20 HP diesel engine and our 34 HP electric motor. The electric motor fits entirely within the envelope of the diesel engine.
The picture provides a clear illustration of why you can be confident that when you remove your diesel engine, the electric motor will fit into the same space without obstruction.
The gearbox delivers torque instantly, reliably, and helps make the system maintenance free.
Our gearbox has been engineered to enable the electric motor to run in its optimal RPM range while delivering instant torque at the correct RPMs for the propeller. This enables a robust, powerful system design, and greatly simplifies installation.
There are very few moving parts in our system. Of the few parts that move, our gearbox has been engineered for the task, using high strength steel gears and high-performance bearings, it provides hassle-free, safe, and reliable torque conversion between the motor to the propeller.
