With the Drive-Pod-16, Velettrica is introducing a retrofittable hybrid propulsion system for sailing and motor yachts measuring between ten and 14 metres. The manufacturer specifies a continuous shaft power output of 14.2 kilowatts for the pod, more than 4,500 newtons of static thrust and a weight of 38 kilograms.
According to Velettrica, the Drive-Pod-16’s motor, propeller and power electronics are housed in a hydrodynamically shaped pod beneath the hull. This is said to reduce the amount of space required for the propulsion system within the vessel itself. The manufacturer also promises reduced vibration and noise levels.
The key approach to retrofitting: the Drive-Pod-16 is designed to be mounted on the mountings of an existing Saildrive. The modular batteries can take the place of the existing diesel engine. Velettrica has not specified which Saildrive mounts are compatible or what modifications to the hull and on-board electrical system are required. Other suppliers are pursuing similar concepts in electric Saildrive solutions.
Electric in the harbour
It is said that the battery capacity can be expanded with additional modules. According to Velettrica, the batteries can power on-board appliances as well as the propulsion system. A generator separate from the Pod is provided for longer stretches under motor power. The yacht is designed to be able to operate purely on electric power whilst manoeuvring and on coastal legs; however, Velettrica does not specify how far it can travel with a particular battery configuration.
The Drive-Pod-16 thus operates on the principle of a serial hybrid drive: an electric motor provides propulsion, whilst batteries – and, where necessary, a generator – supply electrical energy. The advantages and disadvantages of such systems compared with diesel and purely electric drives are illustrated by the YACHT’s classification of propulsion concepts.
The pod’s electronic control unit is designed to integrate the battery, charger, solar panel and generator. According to the manufacturer, monitoring, diagnostics, telemetry and fault monitoring are included. Velettrica has also announced an optional rotatable pod for precise manoeuvres and dynamic positioning. The propeller and fin are to be made from recycled nylon and recycled carbon fibre. According to the manufacturer, the synchronous motor operates without permanent magnets. Batteries with sodium-ion cells are only planned as a future development step.
Technical specifications of the Drive-Pod-16
| Characteristic | Manufacturer’s specifications |
| Continuous power at the shaft | 14.2 kW at 545 rpm |
| Static thrust | more than 4,500 N |
| Dimensions of the pod | Height 530 mm, length 765 mm |
| Propeller diameter | 620 mm |
| Weight of the pod | 38 kg |
| Battery module | 9 kWh, 350 V, 96 kg; length 780 mm, width 504 mm, height 248 mm |
| Controls and Interfaces | ECU with monitoring, diagnostics and telemetry; CAN bus and NMEA 2000 |
Static thrust describes the force exerted whilst the boat is stationary. It does not, on its own, provide any indication of speed, range or performance whilst underway. On its product page, Velettrica also compares the power and thrust figures with those of diesel engines producing more than 40 and 80 PS respectively.
Book recommendation
Electric mobility on the water explains the technical principles behind electric and hybrid boat propulsion systems, covering everything from the various types of propulsion to installation, operation and cost-effectiveness. For boat owners considering replacing their diesel engine, the specific conversion examples and the information on battery capacity, range and energy requirements are particularly helpful.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
