Honda Navigates the Seas
Honda is expanding its reach into boating by introducing a new electric boat. This new vessel combines impressive performance and connectivity to make boating more convenient than ever before.
Honda’s new electric propulsion system is the first of its kind in the marine industry. It’s part of a complete system that provides long-term evolution (LTE) and satellite data to enhance connectivity, navigation and safety for boat owners and operators onboard or ashore.
Designed for Long-Range Travel
If you’re planning a long-range trip, an electric boat is the perfect solution. With the right e-power system and battery technology, you can cruise up to 50 nautical miles at 22 knots between charges.
Fortunately, there are a number of companies working to bring more eco-friendly power to the water. From small e-turbines and solar panels to electric propellers and water jet propulsion, these options are all being integrated into new boat models.
While they are not yet available to the general public, these technologies are making their way onto high-performance speedboats, day boats and weekend yachts. These systems not only improve safety, they help reduce emissions and increase the range of these vessels, so that they can get you to your destination faster.
For example, Candela Technology’s hydrofoiling C-8 uses a hydrofoiling technology to lift the hull out of the water and use around 80% less energy than conventional planing boats. And when they teamed up with Polestar to add 69 kWh batteries, the C-8 now boasts a range rating of 57 nautical miles between charges.
Designed for Convenience
Honda’s combustion engine outboards are a common sight on the back of boats in marinas around the world, but they could one day go green. The transom-mount electric outboard Honda showed off at Dusseldorf last month is reportedly still a prototype but the design looks pretty refined at this point.
Designed for convenience, Honda Navigates the Seas with New Electric Boat is equipped with an advanced smartphone app that allows boat owners to monitor their engine and boat data, maintain navigation and safety information and connect to Honda dealers, 24/7. The app is compatible with iOS and Android devices and is a part of HondaLink Marine, the first marine outboard manufacturer to offer a comprehensive, connected services boat management app.
Taking advantage of the latest long-term evolution (LTE) and satellite data technology, HondaLink Marine is the most comprehensive smartphone app for marine users. It features remote monitoring capability, complete boat and engine data, news resources, social media platforms, a telematics control unit (TCU) and more.
Designed for Safety
Whether you’re cruising or taking a ferry across the ocean, Honda Navigates the Seas with New Electric Boat will make your trip as smooth and comfortable as possible. It features the iST(r) command and control system, which is designed to provide superb control with an easy-to-understand user interface.
The iST(r) system integrates with the Optimus 360 joystick steering, Seaways by Dometic(r) virtual positioning and virtual anchoring, and a host of other convenience and safety features to ensure your time on the water is as enjoyable as possible.
With more and more people looking to reduce their impact on the environment, more electric boats are coming onto the market. These boats can offer a quieter ride, a more environmentally friendly way to travel, and lower fuel costs for the owner.
Sweden’s Candela is pushing this technology with their hydrofoil (underwater wings) long-range electric craft. They have raised EUR24M from EQT Ventures to expand their R&D and scale up production to meet demand for their electric leisure and commercial vessels.
Designed for Connectivity
A new HondaLink Marine app gives boaters the capability to monitor their boat and engine data, maintain navigation and safety information and connect with their local Honda dealer on a smartphone. The application also allows users to share their experience on social media, with a simple setup and easy-to-use interface.
The new app was introduced at a number of recent shows and events. At the International Boating Expo in Las Vegas, a Honda-powered Hurricane SunDeck 217 will be showcased and visitors will learn more about HondaLink Marine at the company’s indoor exhibit #3-925.
During the 43rd Cannes Yachting Festival in 2021, Groupe Beneteau showcased new electric and hybrid propulsion technologies for sailing boats. Beneteau’s Excess and Delphia brands are introducing electric motorboat models in January 2022.
Spanish powerboat yard Magonis is also bringing its latest eco-innovation to the show. The company’s new MagBuoy is a floating charger that can be installed on any electric boat or yacht. It can be used to charge up to 20 vessels at a time and doesn’t require visiting a marina or dock.
