HÄUFIGE FRAGEN

Both systems include the propulsion system together with the throttle lever, display, batteries and chargers.  An Oceanvolt Hybrid system in a complete electric propulsion and power management system that also includes solar panels, generators and the Oceanvolt RSI (remote system interface).

The range of a hybrid system with a DC generator and 300L of fuel is around 600-700 nautical miles.

No.  Electric engines deliver a higher level of performance, more efficiency (93%), less noise, no maintenance requirements and the ability to regenerate energy while under sail.  A DC hybrid has all of these benefits and even better range than with a comparable diesel engine due to higher efficiency.  A hybrid system delivers the best of both technologies.

We recommend either SuperB (EU) or Valence (U.S.) Lithium Ion batteries with Oceanvolt electric motor systems.  AGM batteries and other Lithium batteries can also be used, but with systems that have an 8kW motor or less.

Oceanvolt electric motors deliver significantly more torque than any comparable diesel engine.  A 10kW Oceanvolt electric motor easily outperforms and is more powerful than a 30hp diesel engine.  Typically, boat max speed will be somewhat lower (0.5 - 1.0 kn) that with a comparable diesel engine, but at the same time the boat will maintain the speed better in heavy seas and headwind due to higher torque.  Maneuverability is much better in confined marina spaces.

The battery banks are generally configured for 4-10 hours of motoring at the speed of 4-6 knots (about 30 - 40 nautical miles).

Battery banks are recharged by hydro generation while under sail, a generator or shore power.

Lithium Ion batteries will last 10 years if they are handled properly.  The basic warranty is for 2 years and can be extended to 5 years.

The Oceanvolt display continuously shows the charge level in real time.  Should you run low on battery power, you can use the regeneration function while sailing.  Some customers have chosen to have a small portable generator (these can run on LPG or gasoline) on board to recharge the battery bank or to use as a temporary range extender.  For larger boats Oceanvolt recommends a hybrid system which includes a permanent DC generator - this enables enjoyment of all of the benefits of the electric motor system without compromising on range.

Charging your 12V DC house battery from the 48V DC propulsion battery bank can be easily facilitated via an inverter.  DC converters can only be used with AGM - not Lithium Ion batteries.

Using shore power, it can take between 5 and 10 hours to charge the battery bank up to 100% - depending on the shore power source and the size of the charger.

Managed properly, Lithium Ion batteries are perfectly safe and failures are rare. High quality manufacturers use multiple protection mechanisms to avoid problems.  Be sure to understand proper battery care procedures in order to maintain the safety and lifespan of your batteries and the effectiveness of your Oceanvolt system.