Elco Motor Yachts, a leader in electric propulsion systems, launched the EP-10000, its most powerful motor to date, at the 2013 International Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference (IBEX). The EP-10000 delivers all the benefits of an electric motor while generating power comparable to a 100 hp diesel engine.
The EP-10000 is the most powerful electric motor in its class for pleasure boaters, capable of replacing diesel engines ranging from 75 – 125 hp. The cruising time, while using batteries only, can range from 2 to 16 hours. By adding a generator, the operator can cruise continuously at a much greater range than a fossil fuel engine due to the remarkable efficiency of the Elco patented AC three-phase technology. The system’s average recharging time is between three and four hours with a standard charger and between two and three hours with a quick charger.
“The installation-ready EP-10000 is a perfect fit for modern boats and yachts that range from about 50' to 85', and it’s a great choice for classic boats as well,” said Elco CEO Steve Lamando. “In fact, the first EP-10000 that was manufactured is being used to repower a 1941 Elco cabin cruiser. So we’ll have a 72-year-old boat that contains a 100 percent electric propulsion system that uses zero gas and produces zero exhaust, with a range of 75 miles.”
Elco EP electric motors are being installed in sail boats and yachts worldwide. They exceed up to ten times the motor life duration standards of traditional gas and diesel propulsion systems and are rated to 50,000 hours. The benefits of using an electric motor include reduced carbon emissions, silent motor operation and Plug & Play system components. Operating and maintenance costs are significantly lower than diesel engines because Elco EP electric motors feature a brushless AC system that only contains one moving part. The system is completely sealed to ensure water and particle resistance. Elco EP electric motors easily fit onto existing diesel engine motor mounts for repowering applications and are fully integrated with an easy-to-use full-color display panel option, throttle, key switch, power boost button and many other components.