Porsche's electric sports boat undergoes testing as orders begin

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air is a unique high-performance luxury electric boat that has been introduced to the public by Porsche. This marks the first time that test runs of the boat have been made available.

Stefan Frauscher, the managing director of Frauscher Shipyard, explained that the electric version of the Fantom Air surpasses the internal combustion engine version in terms of driving characteristics such as top speed, acceleration, and handling. Additionally, it is locally emission-free.

Porsche and Frauscher have collaborated to create this electric sports boat, utilizing drive technology from the upcoming Porsche Macan EV. This partnership will contribute to the advancement of the electric boat segment.

Stefan Frauscher, who is also the grandson of the company's founder, emphasized the increasing importance of electric drives in their industry. Customers are particularly pleased with electric boats due to their silence, lack of emissions, and reliability.

The electric boat shares the same dimensions as the 585 daycruiser but incorporates components from the Porsche Macan EV, which is set to be released next year.

Porsche has adapted its drive technology designed for future road vehicles for use on the water. The electric boat incorporates components from Porsche's PPE platform, which will also be used in the Macan. This includes the electric motor (limited to 400 kW), battery, and power electronics.

The boat features a 100 kWh battery, derived from the Macan, which is located beneath the lounge area at the rear end. Porsche has also included a branded waterproof box to protect the motor from the elements.

Porsche has programmed the boat with different drive modes, similar to its vehicles, which can be useful in various situations. These modes include Docking, Range, Sport, and Sport Plus, each altering the throttle response and speed limits.

The optimal cruising speed of the electric boat is 22 knots, providing approximately one hour of travel time. Sport Plus mode allows for the highest top speed, which is capped at 46 knots. Depending on the profile, a mix of slow and high-speed travel can provide around two to three hours of driving time.

Thanks to Porsche's 800V technology, the electric boat can be charged from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes. Charging options are available in common locations, and the boat is equipped with an 11 kW AC charger.

The design of the electric boat incorporates elements from Porsche's iconic 911. The two leather seats, designed by Studio F.A. Porsche, feature raised backrests, integrated headrests, and an embroidered crest inspired by sports car seats.

The boat also includes features such as a swimming platform at the rear, a lounge area, a 12-inch display screen, LED underwater lighting, and a cooling compartment.

Porsche has unveiled the electric boat for the first time, allowing interested individuals to test it at Lake Garda. Orders for the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air are now open for the first 25 "first edition" models, with prices starting at €561,700 ($593,800). The first customer deliveries are expected to commence next year. The boat will be manufactured at the Frauscher shipyard in Austria, while the shipyard company will handle sales and logistics.

FutureCar Staff