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Elvene Debuts High-Speed Solar Electric Boat In Nice

18th March 2026
Solar Speed — Elvene’s AMY solar electric boat reaches planing speeds while generating its own energy, combining 30-knot performance with low-emission propulsion at its debut in Nice.
Solar Speed — Elvene’s AMY solar electric boat reaches planing speeds while generating its own energy, combining 30-knot performance with low-emission propulsion at its debut in Nice

Finnish boatbuilder Elvene has unveiled its latest solar electric vessel, AMY, ahead of its debut at Nice Boating Tomorrow. The company says the new model is among the fastest solar electric boats in serial production, with a top speed of up to 30 knots. Designed and built in Finland, the vessel combines high-speed performance with energy autonomy for both private and commercial use.

At its core is a 50 kW ARIES electric outboard from German manufacturer Molabo, using a 48-volt low-voltage system. At cruising speed, AMY delivers a range of around 35 nautical miles at 20 knots. At lower speeds, the vessel can operate in “solar sailing” mode, generating its own energy and offering an effectively unlimited range depending on sunlight.

Solar Sprint — Elvene’s AMY on test in Nice, reaching planing speeds under electric power with solar-assisted propulsion.Solar Sprint — Elvene’s AMY on test in Nice, reaching planing speeds under electric power with solar-assisted propulsion.

The system includes a battery capacity of up to 66 kWh and an integrated solar array of up to 1300 W.

Elvene said the design reduces reliance on shore-based charging infrastructure. “This boat demonstrates that solar electric propulsion is no longer limited to slow displacement speeds,” said Emil Finne, CEO of Elvene. “We’re bringing together performance, usability, and energy independence in a format that works for real-world boating,” he added.

Power Core — Molabo’s 50kW ARIES electric outboard powering AMY with low-voltage propulsion technology.Power Core — Molabo’s 50kW ARIES electric outboard powering AMY with low-voltage propulsion technology.

Molabo COO Adrian Patzak said the low-voltage system simplifies operation and maintenance. “Delivering 50 kW at 48 volts enables high performance without the complexity and safety requirements of high-voltage systems,” he said.

The vessel is designed for inshore use and is suited to charter fleets, private owners and boat-sharing platforms. Optional shore power charging at 3 kW provides additional flexibility when required.

Elvene said the model addresses key challenges in marine electrification, including balancing speed, range and operational simplicity. AMY will be on display from 19 to 22 March at Nice Boating Tomorrow, where visitors can view its onboard systems and performance capabilities.

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About Electric outboard engines

The direct-drive component in electric outboard engines means that the electric motors are incredibly efficient compared to conventional marine combustion motors, operating with considerably higher torque whilst using less power.

Without any need for gears, cooling systems and moving parts the motors are maintenance free, highly efficient and economic to run.

As a result, electric boat engines are becoming more popular on Irish waters as the world transitions from fossil fuels to green energy.

To date, popular electric engine sizes have been trolling engines typically used by fishermen on lakes.

These marine engines are available in models that can be used in fresh water and sea water, for your boat or kayak.

Electric motors are Ideal for fishermen because they are quiet and create little in the way of disturbance 

Popular electric trolling models range from 30lb thrust to 55lb thrust in a range of shaft lengths.

But use is becoming broader now in 2021 and electric outboard engines are being used on small runabouts and RIBS where electric outboard engine sizes are getting bigger.

Outboard electric engines are economical and environmentally friendly. Battery technology is also improving at a rapid rate meaning they are becoming smaller and lighter and run for longer.

Built in hydro-generation provides alternative recharging options whilst under sail are also options meaning the electric outboard now has a home on the stern on small yachts and dayboats too.

As far back as 2014, Torqeedo owner Jack O'Keefe from Cork Harbour told Afloat readers of his sailing adventures in a Drascombe Coaster dinghy and how after swapping from a petrol version the rewards from his new electric outboard engine are less noise, no smells, more stowage, better sailing performance and a motor that can be started by a small child. But it's still not silent, there's a whine he says here 

Popular brands in Ireland are Torqeedo, ePropulsion, Pulsar and Minn Kota but there are more arriving all the time as the technology advances