SAFE Boats and Vita Power build zero-emission patrol boat

Vita Power and SAFE Boats International (SBI) have entered an MOU to develop zero-emission patrol boats. The first product of this collaboration has been the development of a 100% electric patrol boat, the SAFE Boats 223e, which is available for immediate order with deliveries starting in late 2024.

The companies have adapted one of SAFE Boats’ hull designs – the 23’ Center Console – to be propelled by Vita Power’s V300 electric motor and battery package. Dubbed the “223e”, this concept provides a zero-emission solution for operators working long hours at lower speeds.

Performance calculations with the 300hp electric motor predict the 223e will maintain an operational battery life of 10 hours at 5kts, one hour at cruise speed, and be capable of a 34kts sprint speed. Using the Aqua SuperPower charger – from Vita’s sister company – the boat can recharge in one hour or less. Compared to an outboard-powered engine, the 223e is expected to save thousands in annual fuel and maintenance costs.

Richard Schwarz, CEO of SAFE Boats, remarked, “The SAFE/Vita collaboration is to develop electric boats that can be used for specific applications such as lake patrols and for harbormasters who are spending most of their time at low speeds in sensitive environments. As state regulations clamp down on emissions requirements, boat and engine manufactures are being pushed to develop innovative solutions to maintain compliance. This SBI/Vita solution suits those ever-tightening requirements.”

Clive Johnson, CEO of Vita, stated, “The 223e is the perfect size boat to offer first responders the range and performance Vita has to offer in a durable workboat. The Vita propulsion system is designed to offer a complete electrification solution for a broad range of marine applications from commercial vessels to superyacht tenders, and we are excited to be working with SAFE Boats to bring our technology to first responders and harbormasters here in the US. With local and state government bodies offering increasing support for businesses wanting to decarbonize their operations, the US and organisations like SAFE Boats are paving the way to a clean marine future.”

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