The system has Hanseyachts exclusively together with the e-motor manufacturer Torqeedo and the supplier for steering gear Jefa designed. It consists of a pod motor that is integrated into a rudder blade and connected to a large battery bank. The E Motion Rudder Drive, as the system is known by its full name, replaces the combustion engine and the saildrive.
The propeller jet is steered synchronously with the rudder, like a parallel-controlled outboard motor. The rudder can therefore act immediately, from a standing position, as it does not have to be energised first. The boat can be turned immediately, which simplifies mooring and casting off even in unfavourable crosswinds. The rudder stop, which has been increased to a total of 100 degrees, also helps here.
Further advantages: There are fewer hull passages, the system is virtually maintenance-free and the weight is reduced. And the drive is clean and quiet. The range is said to be 30 nautical miles at a speed of 4.5 knots and recharging takes three hours. The E Motion Rudder Drive was installed in a Hanse 315 and tested by both the shipyard and YACHT. The results can be read in issue 24. The Hanse 315 will be presented at the Hanseboot and can be seen at stand C108 in hall 6.
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Fridtjof Gunkel
Deputy Chief Editor YACHT
