eD-QDrive is a complete system, from surface drive unit mounted through the transom to the battery system, AI controller and helm interface.
Electric propulsion specialists eD-TEC – the company founded by former VW Group Chief Strategy Officer Michael Jost – will be showing its pioneering eD-QDrive propulsion system at METSTRADE from 15 to 17 November at the RAI Amsterdam. With an interactive display giving an immersive visitor experience, this will be the first opportunity to see the entire eD-QDrive system in a mock-up installation from prop to helm.
Interestingly, there is a substantial Kiwi content with the drive system designed by New Zealand based Q-SPD and the gearbox built by Cubed3 of Pukekawa, Auckland.
The eD-QDrive is an electric drivetrain designed to cater to the needs of the boatbuilding industry as the move toward fully electric boating grows ever closer. The drivetrain comprises a complete system, from surface drive unit mounted through the transom to the battery system, AI controller and helm interface.
The first eD-QDrive – which will make its debut in an 8.6 metre RIB with a range of 70 nautical miles at 30 knots, due to launch before the end of the year – offers 100kW continuous power which can be boosted to 200kW for a limited time thanks to a high performance, high C-rate battery bank scalable from 80 to 320kWh.
The scalability includes the development of drive units capable of delivering up to 600kW each, which would enable 2,400kW combined on a quad drive installation – suitable for powering yachts up to 30 m in length – and the system also offers the option of a conventional generator to serve as a range extender.
The drives are mounted through the transom and, thanks to a quick-mount frame, can be easily and quickly removed and installed. The forward end of the unit offers a power-in socket, two 24V sockets for trim tabs and foil actuators and two CAN bus connectors, making the eD-QDrive instant plug-and-play. All other components – the motor, cooling seawater inlet and outlet, motor controller, high-torque gearbox, and humidity, vibration and temperature sensors – are integrated into the drive unit meaning there are no additional components to mount and no through-hull fittings to be added or drilled, resulting in convenience, speed of installation and ease of use for any shipyard or operator.
The AI BOX serves as the brain of the backbone, and not only controls and optimises the drivetrain itself but also can manage the entire 24V and digital switching system on the boat. This means complete integration, which extends to the autopilot and helm electronics. Further, the AI unit will allow for continual cloud-based remote monitoring of the system, which enables predictive maintenance, OTA software updates for continual performance enhancements, and automatic remote support and parts supply.
The eD-QDrive is available now for boatbuilders and for other interested parties, with pricing available on application.
