Making boat electric
Making boat electric: everything you need to know about converting to electric boating
Electric boating has long since ceased to be hype. It has become a logical choice for boat owners who want quiet, clean and low-maintenance boating. Especially in cities like Amsterdam, where increasingly stringent environmental regulations apply, an electric drive offers a solution. But what if you already have a boat? Is it possible to make your existing boat electric? And how exactly does such a conversion work?
In this blog, you can read all about the converting your boat to electric boating, including the benefits, concerns and why engaging a specialist such as E-WERF making a difference.
Why you should make your boat electric
Making a boat electric has distinct advantages:
- Silent sailing: No more humming of a diesel engine, but peace on the water.
- Sustainability: No exhaust fumes and less environmental impact.
- Bearing maintenance: Electric motors have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines.
- Access to environmental zones: More and more waters are being banned for fuel propulsion.
Therefore, people who already own a boat are increasingly looking for terms such as electric boat or building an electric motor in a boat. The idea is simple: you keep the boat you already have, but make it ready for the future.
How does converting to electric boating work?
Making a boat electric is tailor-made. No two boats are the same, so every project starts with a thorough analysis of the boat and the owner's boating profile. At E-WERF, we use a handy online configurator, which will quickly give you an indication of what is technically possible and what is involved.
Important choices in conversion:
- Which electric motor fits best? This depends on the length, weight and desired cruising speed of your boat. In some cases an inboard engine is suitable, in others a powerful outboard.
- Which battery do you need? Lithium-ion batteries are the standard these days. They are compact, powerful and reliable. Depending on your boating requirements, the battery pack can range from a few kWh to tens of kWh.
- What about weight and balance? Batteries are heavy. Good weight distribution is essential for the stability and safety of your boat.
- What additional technology do you want on board? Think of a battery management system (BMS), shore power connection, solar panels or a digital dashboard.
Building an electric motor in your boat yourself?
There are boat owners who enjoy tinkering themselves and are considering getting their own build electric motors into their boat. All sorts of DIY projects circulate on YouTube and forums. Nevertheless, we recommend leaving this kind of conversion to specialists. Why?
- Safety: Electrical systems combined with water require professional installation.
- Efficiency: A badly tuned system eats up power or does not deliver enough power.
- Warranty and service: With professional installation, you get a warranty on parts and labour.
- Legal requirements: In some cases, there are requirements for electrical installations on water.
At E-WERF, we combine technical expertise with years of experience in converting a variety of boats: from sloops and sailboats to workboats. We not only build in our own workshop in Amsterdam, but also come on site if necessary.
What does it cost to make your boat electric?
The cost of conversion depends very much on your requirements. A simple electric drive starts from a few thousand euros. If you go for more power, bigger batteries and extra technology, the amount rises. But on the other hand, you:
- Out of fuel
- Have less maintenance
- May be able to get subsidy (in certain municipalities)
Moreover, preservation increases the value of your boat. So it is an investment that gives you boating convenience and future-proofing.
Ready to convert your boat?
Search for electric boat or conversion to electric boating, then you are probably already convinced of the benefits. Now it's time to take the next step.
At E-WERF, we work with you to find the smartest solution for your boat. Thanks to our configurator, you quickly know where you stand. This is followed by a personal consultation, a technical check and a customised quotation. Not a standard package, but customised work that suits your boat and sailing style.
Want to know what is possible for your boat? Then go to www.e-werf.nl and start the configurator. Or contact us directly for a no-obligation consultation.
With E-WERF, you sail clean, quiet and carefree into the future.