We’ve been hearing a lot about Flux Marine’s FM115 electric outboard, and we finally got the chance to try it out in Newport, Rhode Island. The motor powered a Highfield 660 RIB and did more than hit 25 knots at top end, offer a smooth ride, and boast quick acceleration: Operation was almost silent. To learn more about the sea trial, watch the video here.
As for background, Flux Marine, was cofounded by Ben Sorkin, Daylin Frantin and Jon Lord, who began developing an electric outboard motor in a garage. After 10 years of research and a reported investment of $30 million, the company has expanded to 50 employees and a 40,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Bristol, Rhode Island.
Every component of the FM115 is designed in-house to optimize affordability, safety and performance. Flux says the system underwent field testing aboard boats for almost two years and recently survived 1,300 hours at wide-open throttle in a test tank, with no maintenance issues.
The FM115 is rated at 115 hp sustained and, for bursts of acceleration, 150 peak horsepower. Energy is provided by a modular system comprised of three 400-volt 28-kWh batteries.
A key feature of the FM115 is the cooling system, which doesn’t rely on seawater. Instead, Flux created a system that circulates a glycol solution around the motor and inverter and through passages in the aluminum anti-ventilation plate, which acts as a heat exchanger. This closed system doesn’t require maintenance or winterization. There is no need to flush the motor internally after use in salt water.
“The idea behind Flux Marine was that there must be a better, more sustainable way to power a boat. We are not trying to do something so radically different that it alienates people,” Sorkin said in a statement. “We are trying to do something that evokes excitement and offers innovation but still makes you feel comfortable with what’s powering your boat.”
