Electric Vessel (EV), Is It The Next Revolution For The Marine Industry?

Sponsored by Rowpow Technology Co.,ltd

15 years ago when Tesla first introduced its` model Roadster, no one had believed it would sell and rival traditional car manufacturers like Ford, GM, and Chverolet. Today Teslas` worth is over $770 Billions, 7 times large then the combined worth of Ford, GM, and Chverolet.

Electrification In the Marine Industry

Following Teslas` inspiration, the marine industry is shifiting towards electric and hybrid vessels as well. Major scale-up companies like Silent Yachts , Candela , Q Yachts , Arksen , and Torqeedo have attracted major investments and successfully deployed innovations into their production.

The Game Changers

The main differences between electric vessels (EVs) and traditional vessels are the batteries, electric motors, inverters, and generators, some EVs also integrate solar panels to generate endless energy from the sun`s power.

The Batteries 🔋

EVs have adopted lithium batteries as their power source instead of lead-acid batteries, commonly used in traditional fuel vessels. The advantages are a five times longer lifespan, zero maintenance, higher energy density, and 50% lighter than lead acid ( Same energy density).

The Engine ⚙

E-motors are used instead of gasoline engines for EVs. The Silent Yacht 60 uses two E-motors with 320 KW torque each and can reach a top speed of 20 knots. Remember this is a 34-tonne yacht equipped with 4 bedrooms.

Candela invented its electric-drive engine called the C-pod, which claims could cut down 50% fuel cost per passenger kilometer compared to diesel engines.

E-motors are inherently maintenance-free, with no vibration or noise, bringing more comfort for the passenger onboard and sea life with the benefits of fuel economy.

The Generators ⚡

To power the electronics and appliances, a diesel generator is often required for large boats, which are noisy, non-eco-friendly, and require frequent maintenance.

EVs mitigate all these problems by using a generator attached to the engine, which can generate current under the optimum RPM. Additionally, the batteries can act as a power bank, storing excessive energy generated by the motor, and from shore power when docked.

The Benefits of Electric Vessels

Full electric yachts offer several benefits, contributing to their increasing popularity in the maritime industry while attracting continuous investors.

✔Environmentally Friendly:

Electric yachts produce zero emissions during operation, significantly reducing their environmental impact compared to yachts powered by fossil fuels. This cleaner operation helps preserve marine ecosystems and reduces air and water pollution.

✔Lower Operating Costs:

Electric yachts generally have lower operating costs due to the efficiency of electric motors, the C-Pod from Candela claims to have 23% more range and 4 times better than competitors, with zero maintenance on the motor for up to 5 years.

✔Enhanced Performance:

Electric motors deliver instant torque, providing excellent acceleration and maneuverability. This instantaneous power response enhances the overall performance and handling of electric yachts.

The Challenges

📌Battery Technology:

One of the primary challenges is developing high-capacity and lightweight batteries with improved energy density. Advancements in battery technology are crucial to increasing the range and efficiency of electric and hybrid yachts.

📌Range and Charging Infrastructure:

Electric yachts face limitations in terms of range due to current battery capabilities. Establishing reliable and widespread charging infrastructure in marinas and ports is essential to support longer journeys and accommodate charging needs.

📌Environmental Concerns in Battery Production:

The production of batteries involves mining rare materials and chemicals, raising environmental concerns. Developing more sustainable and eco-friendly battery manufacturing processes is essential.

📌Costs:

The initial investment for electric or hybrid propulsion systems and high-capacity batteries can be substantial. The Candela P-12 Public Transportation Boat is starting at €1.6 Million, reducing manufacturing costs and making these technologies more affordable is crucial for wider market adoption.

"Buying an electric vessel can be very costly, this is why we wanted to help traditonal boat owners to have taste of the benefits from electric boats". - RowPow Technology Limited

Transition to Sustainable Marine Energy ♻

The Marine Energy Storage System (MESS) presented by Rowpow Technology Co.,ltd is an opportunity for ship owners to retrofit noisy and unreliable diesel generators with a lithium battery bank and electric generator, significantly decreasing maintenance cost, backed by a 5-year warranty from the company.

This system comprises several components, including optional solar panels, a hybrid inverter, modularized batteries, a touchscreen monitor (EMS), air-conditioning, and a 48V generator.

The MESS, with a 40Kwh capacity and continuous power from electric generators and solar panels, allows ship owners to run air-conditioning for 12 hours daily inexpensively. Moreover, the batteries support rapid 100A charging, ensuring quick refills while docked. Overall, the MESS provides ship owners with an eco-friendly, cost-effective upgrade for improved vessel operations.