A project team including Team Tech-Out Racing, Molabo, Kaiser Bootsmanufaktur and Protenergies has launched a fully electric Formula 4 race boat that serves as a demonstrator for a newly developed electrification kit. At the heart of the retrofit solution is Molabo’s Aries 50 kW low-voltage drive, specifically adapted for use in electric F4 race boats. The touch-safe kit enables the easy electrification of existing boats and, in addition to zero-emission propulsion, offers a forward-looking option for software-based power adjustment.
F4 races are held on short, inshore technical circuits using carbon‑fiber tunnel-hull catamarans that reach speeds of around 130km/h. Introduced in the mid‑2000s as a more affordable option, Formula 4 quickly gained worldwide support.
The all-electric F4 enjoys reduced noise and vibration, eliminates emissions and helps to lower the sport’s carbon footprint.
“Molabo’s low-voltage drives are perfect for F4. They have plenty of power, intense acceleration and they’re safe and easy for trained race teams to work on,” said Jürgen Kaiser of Kaiser Bootsmanufaktur, which led the integration project. “We replaced the combustion engine with the Aries drive using the existing outboard motor. The big challenge was battery weight. We sourced very high energy density, lightweight and modular batteries and designed a custom mounting solution, so the modules can be quickly and easily swapped for a fully charged set between races.”
The F4 will make its on-water debut on June 28 in Mâcon, France, for a demonstration. On July 3, the team will compete in the Sea Lab Class at the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge and will make a speed record attempt. From August 21-24, the boat will make demonstration appearances and an inland water record attempt at the Mons Water Grand Prix in Belgium.
“We’re excited about the future of the electric F4,” said Adrian Patzak, COO of Molabo. “It’s a safe, clean, and affordable retrofit solution for the next generation of Formula-series powerboat racers.”