Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Electric Power Comes to Patrol Boats

The Patrol 26 RIB has a carbon fibre deep-V oceangoing hull with 24-degree deadrise, topped with inflatable tubes around the upper rim. This combination aids buoyancy and stability and ensures superior maneuverability.

Powered by a trimmable outdrive with contra-rotating propellers, continuous power of 425 kW (580 hp) and peak power of 550 kW (750 hp), the craft has a top speed of 55 and cruising speed of 25-30 mph (22-26 kt / 40-48 khm).

Voltari high speed electric RIB patrol boat going through the waterIt has been designed specifically for near shore search-and-rescue and patrol, with a range of up to 30 miles at cruising speed and 100 miles at slow speed. Markou said in response to a LinkedIn inquiry that it “provides a full shift (day) use within its application.”

It also has shock suspension seating for crew comfort and a fixed-mount FLIR thermal night vision camera. during demanding missions.a fixed-mount FLIR thermal night vision camera. A secure dry storage area near the helm is designed to hold marine flares and weapons.

High speed electric RIB could save $1M per vessel

For charging, the Patrol 26 RIB supports the J1772/CCS1 interface, which is compatible with Level 2 and DC fast charging. It can be charged at standard marine pedestals offering 50 or 100 A, allowing for a full overnight charge using dockside power. The same connector also enables on-trailer charging using most automotive charging stations, providing versatile charging options for operators.

Markou told National Defence magazine that “One of the biggest advantages of the boat is the cost savings. You eliminate the cost of fuel, and, having no service intervals on the motor or the powertrain, you’ve cut your service cost down to something very minimal,” he said. “In fact, we could go as far as to say it would be one-tenth the cost or less.” A company release estimated that the Patrol 26 RIB could save buyers $1 million per unit over 10 years.

Voltari has operations in both the USA (Fort Lauderdale) and Canada (Montreal and Merrickville). In addition to the Canadian Coast Guard order, a U.S. naval defense contractor has procured two units for a U.S. Navy security contract in San Diego.

“We are thrilled about the Patrol 26 RIB as it marks a significant shift for electric vessels in extra-rugged conditions, said Heaps. “We’re not just building a boat, we’re offering government institutions and militaries a solution that combines high speed, minimal environmental impact, and exceptional durability,”