Is the E-Motion Rudder Drive a Revolution in Yachting?

SailingNews TV on Oct 19, 2016:
The Hanse 315 e-motion rudder drive was developed in cooperation with the partners Jefa and Torqeedo and has an electric engine, which not only replaces the diesel engine and its components but also the complete saildrive.

A 4 kW electric engine and a folding propeller have been integrated into the rudder shaft. The advantage of this system is the significantly improved maneuverability as well as the emission-free and almost silent propulsion.

The integrated engine in the rudder directs the thrust into the respective direction of the rudder. The extended rudder angle of 100 degrees in total allows the Hanse 315 with emotion rudder drive to turn from standstill on her own axis – forward and backward.

When docking and taking off parallel to the pier, the stern of the yacht can be pulled precisely to the dock, which is particularly advantageous in strong winds and narrow ports.

More advantages:
– 100 kg less weight
– No opening in the hull for the saildrive, less drag when sailing
– No noise
– No diesel smell
– Low maintenance (simple system, less moving parts)
– The batteries can be recharged at the dock

The system consists of two to four lithium ion batteries, which propel the yacht at smooth sea and 4.5 knots up to 30 nautical miles. At lower speeds, the range is extended significantly.

The maximum speed is 6.1 knots and thereby not much less than with the conventional diesel engine. With the integrated quick-chargers, the new Hanse 315 e-motion rudder drive is fully recharged in just 3 hours and ready for the next emission-free adventure.