Honda, Tohatsu announce electric outboard motor plans

The new 4kW motor will use Tohatsu’s research and development for the frame including the gear case and lower unit. At the same time, Honda will develop a removable battery system based on its mobile power pack introduced in 2021.

Honda developed the power pack to allow users to swap over spent batteries for new ones at battery stations located in high-use areas.

The battery banks could also feed electricity back into the supply when needed.

According to Tohatsu, it will also conduct field tests of the new electric motor.

Honda and Tohatsu’s move comes in the wake of US outboard engine maker Mercury last year releasing the first of its Avator electric outboard motors, producing 750W or around the equivalent of a 3hp outboard engine.

It also uses a battery that can be swapped out for a fresh one, although Mercury will allow users to recharge the battery at home.

Once developed, the Honda/Tohatsu electric outboard motor would be able to power everything from tenders to small tinnies. Strategically, it will be more powerful than Mercury’s motor.

Honda’s joint development with Tohatsu comes on the back of Tohatsu announcing last year that it would work with Swedish boat-maker Nimbus to help it develop a new range of electric boats.

The Swedish company has already launched the Bella Zero 6.3, a centre console boat featuring an inboard electric motor.

It owns a half stake in another Swedish company called Stream Propulsion, which has developed an electric outboard motor producing 30hp with a peak output of 50hp.

However, this motor uses a conventional outboard engine’s lower unit and adapts it for use with a 96V electric motor mounted where the powerhead used to be.

No timeline was given on when the first Honda/Tohatsu electric motor was expected to be launched on the market.