The EV trend is crossing over to open waters as electric-powered boats are starting to become a segment in the marine market. As a result, young companies like Blue Innovations Group (BIG) are starting to announce their concepts for zero-net boating. BIG’s plan is a 30-foot solar-powered electric cabin cruiser named the R30 Electric Speedboat.
This project is led by BIG’s founder John Vo, Tesla’s former head of global manufacturing. One of the goals for this electric speedboat is longevity and using automotive manufacturing techniques for mass production. The R30 features an aluminum hull with a liquid-cooled 221-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery integrated into the boat’s frame.
On the roof, the boat uses extendable solar panels that fold out from the main canopy providing 2.7-kW of recharging power. In addition, BIG claims its dual motors offer a combined 800 horsepower to push the R30 Electric Speedboat at an estimated top speed of 45 mph.
Moreover, this boat will offer plenty of luxurious amenities with a spacious below-deck cabin with a bed/table arrangement. The captain’s chair features a dual-screen console with a Tesla-style yoke steering wheel.
BIG plans to debut a prototype of the R30 Electric Speedboat’s hull at the CES in January. This prototype will be the alpha test mule by February 2023, along with four beta models to be produced by October. The first delivery of the production variant of the R30 Electric Speedboat will arrive by spring 2024, with priority going to reservation holders.
In case you missed it, Sony Honda Mobility will also have a big announcement at CES 2023.
