Elco Motor Yachts, a builder of electric and hybrid marine propulsion for more than 120 years, is entering the electric outboard motor category.
The New York state-based company is initially launching a new line of 5- and 7-horsepower motors and will offer a 9.9-horsepower model later this year.
The outboards are designed to meet a growing interest in clean, quiet and fuel-efficient propulsion among recreational and commercial boaters. The motors are available for purchase at marine dealerships that offer Elco products and directly through the company’s website.
“Our inboard motors have long provided the benefits of eco-friendly technology to both leisure and commercial marine enthusiasts who care about preserving our waterways,” Elco CEO Steve Lamando said in a statement. “With this new line of electric outboard motors, we see an exciting opportunity to show even more boaters that ‘going electric’is the easiest possible way to ensure that the next generations of boaters can enjoy our natural resources.”
Elco said its electric outboard motors come equipped with multiple safety features, including an emergency stop switch, overload protection and temperature indicators. Additionally, optional gauges and LCD monitors are available that display data such as power consumption, voltage levels and other information.
List price for the 5 hp is $2,910. The 7 costs $4,100 and the 9.9 costs $4,804.
Elco’s new product will compete with the Torquedo, a line of electric outboards manufactured in Germany.
