At the recent IBEX (International BoatBuilders' Exhibition & Conference) boat show, electric outboards took center stage, highlighting the industry's commitment to sustainable, quiet and efficient propulsion systems.

Innovations and New Entrants:

Vision Marine Technologies unveiled the E-Motion 180E, which was highlighted as the world's most powerful 180hp electric outboard. This model represents a significant step forward in electric boating, combining performance with sustainability. Vision Marine's commitment to zero-emission boats was evident, with plans to expand distribution channels to meet global demand.

Mercury Marine unveiled the Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which was also on display at IBEX. These additions to the Avator line offer low-voltage all-electric propulsion for a variety of boat types, from inflatables to small boats, demonstrating Mercury’s strategy to offer electric options across its entire product range.

ePropulsion was recognized for its eLite model in Boating Industry’s 2024 Best Products list, highlighting the company’s impact on making electric propulsion affordable. They have been focused on expanding their offerings to serve a wider market segment.

Educational Sessions and Compliance:

A workshop titled “So You Want to Build an Electric Boat: Will You Be Compliant?” was part of the IBEX Education Conference on the US Coast Guard’s Interim Policy for Electric Propulsion Systems. This session was critical for builders and designers to understand the changing standards and compliance requirements for electric boats.

Market Trends and Networking:

IBEX provided a platform for networking and education in electric propulsion technology. The Start-Up Pavilion and IBEX Main Stage discussions covered topics such as leadership, workforce development and industry trends that are critical to the adoption and growth of electric outboard technology.

The show’s focus on innovation was evident with over 700 companies in attendance, many showcasing new electric drive technologies, reflecting the industry’s shift to more sustainable practices.

General Notes:

The presence of electric outboards at IBEX signified the growing recognition and interest in electric boats as an alternative to traditional combustion engines. The focus was not only on the environmental benefits, but also on operational benefits such as reduced maintenance, lower noise levels and an improved user experience.

While not explicitly mentioned in the context of IBEX, companies like Evoy are part of a larger conversation around high-performance electric outboards, with models like the Breeze and Storm series setting the standard for recreational boating.

The educational and exhibition components of IBEX highlighted that electric outboards are not just a niche market, but an integral part of the future of boating, with a focus on performance, design and compliance with new regulations.

In summary, the latest IBEX Boat Show was a testament to the boating industry’s embrace of electric outboards, showcasing technological advances, educational initiatives and a collective move towards greener boating solutions.