Protector and New Zealand electric propulsion company, Naut, have partnered to develop the first fully electric Protector vessel, combining Protector’s internationally recognised hull design with Naut’s high-performance electric propulsion technology.
The ‘ProtectorE 310 Chase’ (currently in production) will be every inch a Protector – featuring an advanced, ultra-capable hull, a smooth ride in all conditions, and tough but luxurious finishing.
The only difference is the propulsion system (and the ‘ProtectorE powered by Naut’ branding).
Naut’s Kaha, 100% electric outboard, provides zero emission, clean-green power. The company believe it may be the most powerful commercially available electric production outboard. Even at high speeds, there are no fumes and almost no sound, so all you can hear and smell is the waves and the ocean.
System specifications and user benefits
The outboard delivers instant torque that holds steady under pressure, with 300hp continuous power and 525hp at peak. Batteries are fully configurable, so you can add extra range or power as needed. Charging is easy with flexibility to charge at home, at marinas, or from a mothership. Charging can take under an hour using DC fast charging, while charging at home using a standard AC plug removes the need to tow the boat to the fuel station.
Maintenance is easier than ever – the Naut electric system has fewer moving parts and no fuel systems, breakdowns are rare and regular maintenance is easier. The vessel is ideal for a wide range of users, including the vast majority of everyday recreational trips. Commercial users are well catered for too, especially those who have a pre-defined route that they repeat multiple times a day.
Why electric?
The benefits of electric from a use-perspective are convincing – but the environmental benefits are undeniable. This technology significantly reduces noise pollution, air pollution, and contamination of our oceans, lakes and waterways – allowing us to enjoy the water without harming our environment,
Naut-Protector partnership
Naut was established five years ago after one of New Zealand’s largest electrical engineering companies, McKay, successfully developed the propulsion system for Wellington’s Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully electric passenger ferry.
Dean Harris, Rayglass President, explains the motivation behind the Naut-Protector partnership: “The ProtectorE is an exciting innovation for Rayglass, but this isn’t change for the sake of it. This is a fantastic vessel, in keeping with our usual high standards. “And there’s nothing like the experience of hearing the waves when you accelerate. Naut has built a fantastic propulsion system, and we want to share this technology with the world.”
Fiona Bycroft, CEO of Naut, says Rayglass is the ideal partner: “Rayglass and the Protector brand have built an outstanding reputation for quality, performance and innovation, so they were a natural partner for us. Together we’re showing what’s possible when New Zealand marine engineering and electric propulsion come together. “We developed the Kaha outboard knowing it needed a world-class boat to demonstrate what it could do. A Protector vessel is an obvious choice, and having the backing of Brunswick alongside Rayglass makes this an incredibly exciting partnership for Naut.”
