Show and Tell

New marine tech to look for at this season’s boat shows.

This year promises to be a year of innovations and announcements from manufacturers of boats, engines and electronics. With supply chain disruptions and COVID slowing things down over the last couple of years, it seems many manufacturers have been holding back on new product releases until now. Boat shows throughout 2023 will be the perfect venues for displaying the latest and greatest technology in boating, and there are a few new products worth looking out for at these shows.

Hybrid systems

With the increasing popularity of electrification in the auto world, the marine industry is working diligently to move in that direction as well. While electric boats and electric outboard offerings are expanding, so too are electric hybrid onboard systems.

Brunswick recently announced its new Fathom e-Power System. The result of a collaboration between several Brunswick-owned companies within the Navico Group, this new system is designed to eliminate the need for an onboard generator. Initially available as an option in new Brunswick boats with kits designed for specific craft and power sources, this system will eventually be offered and available to retrofit into an existing craft.

Utilizing ever more capable lithium batteries, these power systems enable the boater to monitor and control electrical output to a point that they can enjoy a day or weekend on the water without having to fire up a generator or be hooked up to shore power. With lithium batteries from Mastervolt at the heart of these systems, users can enjoy electric power like never before.

“Lithium batteries for marine applications have gained substantial traction in the last decade,” says Eric Lindquist, VP and general manager of power systems at Navico Group. “They last longer, charge faster, reduce weight and maximize space, as well as save time and money in the long run — all while minimizing negative impacts on the environment.”

But capable batteries aren’t all that make up this system. There is effective power monitoring that can shut off unnecessary equipment and conserve power where and when needed, as well as send power to where it’s most needed and effective. When combined with a high-output alternator, as found on Mercury’s new V10 and V12 Verado outboards, simply running these engines either at idle speeds or underway, they can top up power, extending time away from generators or shore power.

Electric outboards

Expect to see more all-electric outboards at shows this year. Mercury has stated they will be making multiple announcements in 2023 regarding their concept electric outboard, the Avator. Displayed at various shows and events in 2022, the Avator was emphasized as only a concept. Developed from the ground up (not a modification or redesign of a combustion engine) this small outboard could develop into a series of all-electric outboards that will power smaller craft, all while utilizing swappable lithium batteries. Mercury also recently displayed concepts of power control displays and throttles for these small electric motors and even had a pontoon rigged with the concept system.

Manufacturers such as Torqeedo and Vision Marine Technologies already have outboards on the market. Four Winns recently announced a new 22-foot bowrider model for 2023, sporting Vision Marine’s E-Motion 180-hp outboard. The all-new H2e model is the first all-electric production bowrider on the market. It utilizes a complete propulsion, battery and battery management system that is scaled perfectly to the vessel. Utilizing a high-voltage battery system to provide the power needed from the 180-hp engine and a rapid charge system, the H2e can provide a fun-filled day on the water.

Other top-tier outboard manufacturers such as Yamaha will also have boats available in 2023 with its HARMO electric outboard. The first boat to market with the Harmo unit is the Italian-manufactured Respiro by Venmar. It seems there will be other models coming online this year with the innovative electric powerplant, so watch for them at the shows.

Improved tech

Show visitors will see new and improved live view sounders and fish finders, such as Lowrance’s new HD Pro and Active Target 2, as well as more system integration and control through multifunction displays. There will also be an emphasis on power efficiency and electrification. The biggest news at these shows, however, will be the shift to electric, and electric hybrid power and systems. ★