Aquabus, a new
water-taxi service in Ottawa, Ontario, promises elegance and silence on an eco-friendly
boat. For a clean, quiet river cruise, Au feel de l’eau (Go with the Flow) is
powered by electric motors from
Torqeedo.
“We were
sold on Torqeedo because it’s a light, powerful outboard that’s waterproof and
easy to remove,” says Jean-Marc Hénot, who owns Au feel de l’eau with his wife,
Sylvie Lyonnais, in a Torqeedo press release. “The Twin Cruise 4.0 R makes it
easier to maneuver the boat. We also like the long running time.”
Torqeedo’s
innovative propeller design delivers a cruising speed of 6 knots, with a top
speed of 12 knots, the company says. Supplying 16 hp on 48V, the motors are the
highest efficiency outboards in their power class with propulsive power equivalent
to an 8 hp gas outboard, Torqeedo says.
In addition
to having no environmental impact, Hénot wanted Aquabus to be powered by ultra-lightweight
batteries. At only 55 pounds each, the Torqeedos proved a perfect match for the
Aquabus.
Twin
throttle displays make it easy for owners to monitor battery charge status,
remaining range, speed over ground and input power, the company says. The motor
is designed for connection with a standard remote steering system and comes
with a tie bar to connect both motors.
The 30’ x 10’
canopied Aquabus operates between May and October on the Gatineau and Ottawa
rivers. Up to 12 passengers travel to the Museum of Civilization and Casino du
Lac-Leamy.
Lyannaise says
the service fits well with Ottawa’s clean image. “It took only a hundred years
for someone to come up with this idea,” she said, repeating a customer’s
comment. “Our passengers really like the lack of noise and smell. And the engine’s
small size makes them smile.”