Zodiac and Torqeedo announced that they will be collaborating on an eOpen range of Zodiac electric boats to be revealed later this week at the Cannes Yachting Festival.
The eOpen range is being introduced with two sizes: the 10-foot 3.1 and the 11-foot 6-inch 3.4 that will come with a complete Torqeedo drive system, including motor, batteries and charger.
“These two 100 percent electric models meet the new needs of customers: no maintenance, no noise, no servicing, less pollution, simple and responsive driving, and an affordable price,” says Fanny Revert-Ciavattini, Zodiac product marketing manager. “Electric mobility is gaining ground all around us, and as the market leader in RIBs, we couldn’t afford to miss out!”
Zodiac already has its eJet 450, which was designed specifically as a tender for large yachts and was built in collaboration with Torqeedo. It uses a hydroJet system powered by a Torqeedo Deep Blue 50kW motor and 80i 50kWh battery.
According to Zodiac the new electric boats will be able to go for 50 minutes at 12 knots.
With four and six seats respectively, the 3.1 and 3.4 will have several options available, including an EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) floor, a bimini top, a stern ladder, a storage net, a lift kit and a Fusion audio system.
“We were thrilled to partner with Zodiac on their eOPEN line of electric RIBs,” said Dr. Michael Rummel, managing director of Torqeedo. “It’s an iconic, yet an innovative company that has a finger on the pulse of what customers want, and when.”
