Following the launch of a new electric boat for the Seine River using a system by its brand Bellmarine, Fischer Panda UK is highlighting its strengthened capabilities to collaborate with boat builders on projects to launch more electric powered vessels onto UK waters.
Complete systems specialist Fischer Panda UK is reporting an increase in enquiries for electric power solutions as OEMs and boat owners look to benefit from the low cost and maintenance, high efficiency, silent cruising and environmentally friendly features of the latest drive systems.
As the exclusive UK distributor for Bellmarine electric drive systems, Fischer Panda UK offers similarly innovative systems to the one recently installed on the first of two 8.3-metre passenger boats to operate on the Paris river. Suitable for up to 12 people plus the skipper and with an autonomy of 24 hours, the vessel has a Bellmarine / Transfluid electric system with two 15kW SailMasters, which are water-cooled and powered by lithium batteries. Passengers can travel in silence at an average speed of 15km/h along the canals of Paris, enjoying the city without the disturbance of engine noise.
Chris Fower, Director of Sales and Marketing, Fischer Panda UK, said: “Everyone is much more aware today of the need to protect the environment surrounding our inland waterways and rivers. Reflecting this concern, we are seeing a definite increase in interest about our electric and hybrid electric drive systems, both for newly-built vessels or retro-fitting, which not only provide up to 100% emission free cruising but many other cost and efficiency benefits. Recent technological advances ensure that the systems are accessible to many boat owners and operators, so more people can improve both their on-board experience and the surrounding environment. We already work with leading builders such as Elton Moss and we are keen to work with more OEMs to use our experience and full system capabilities in finding the best solution for each application.”
Fischer Panda UK offers the Bellmarine DriveMaster and SailMaster systems and accessories in addition to its highly respected range of Fischer Panda ‘Easy Box’ Electric Drive Systems. Developed to cope with the harsh maritime environment, the Bellmarine systems, include the liquid-cooled range of DriveMaster Ultimate and Modular systems, feature motor with integrated thrust bearing, mounting frames and smart controller for compact installations, less noise and vibrations and higher efficiency. In addition, Bellmarine’s collaboration with Mastervolt ensures Fischer Panda UK can supply complete and fully-integrated electric propulsion systems. Batteries are charged through the on-board charger when connected to shore power or the system can be supported by a compact Fischer Panda diesel generator.
Fischer Panda UK offers full-system capability, servicing and aftercare, supplying marine generators, electric propulsion, air-conditioning, watermakers, and power monitoring and control solutions.