Mercury Marine Expands Electric Outboard Lineup with Avator™ 75e and 110e
Mercury's two new electric outboard engines are set to play a significant role in the future of recreational boating.
June 4, 2024
Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has officially introduced the Avator™ 75e and 110e electric outboards. These additions to the Avator lineup, which already includes the Avator 7.5e, 20e, and 35e, mark a significant step in the company's electric propulsion series, aimed at providing sustainable boating solutions.
Above: The Mercury Avator 110e electric outboard motor. Photo by Mercury Marine.
Performance and Technology
The new Avator models utilize Mercury's transverse flux motor technology, known for delivering instant torque and efficient power. The 75e model produces 7500 watts, equating to 10 horsepower, while the 110e model generates 11000 watts, translating to 15 horsepower. These motors are designed to power a variety of vessels, including pontoons, runabouts, skiffs, and RIBs. Both models are available with digital remote controls for console steering, and the 75e also offers a multi-function tiller handle.
Battery Integration and Charging
The outboards connect to the Avator 5400 Power Center, which allows up to four weather-sealed Avator 5400Wh lithium-ion batteries to be integrated, extending the range and runtime. Charging options include a 520W portable charger, recharging two batteries in about 20 hours, and a 1050W charger that reduces charge time by more than half. This setup ensures flexibility and convenience for various boating needs.
Above: The Mercury Avator 75e electric outboard engine. Photo by Mercury Marine.
User Interface and Connectivity
The Avator series features a full-color digital display, providing essential information such as speed, remaining range, battery level, and power output. This display can be flush-mounted or pedestal-mounted on the 75e and 110e remote console models, while the tiller model integrates it directly into the outboard.
Furthermore, the outboards come equipped with the Mercury SmartCraft® Connect module, enabling wireless connection to the Mercury Marine app. This app offers performance data, GPS mapping, and visualized range estimates, enhancing trip planning. Users can also monitor their reduced carbon footprint, reflecting the environmental benefits of using electric propulsion.
Sustainability Commitment
The Avator program exemplifies Mercury Marine's dedication to environmentally friendly marine propulsion. The electric outboards operate without exhaust fumes and direct emissions, and many components are recyclable or reusable. This commitment aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable boating and the increasing popularity of electric outboards.
Electric Propulsion Trends
The introduction of the Avator 75e and 110e aligns with the broader marine industry trends toward electric propulsion. This shift is driven by increasing environmental awareness and advancements in battery technology, making electric outboards more viable for a range of boating applications. As detailed in industry discussions, electric outboards are becoming the wave of the future, offering quiet operation, lower maintenance costs, and a reduced environmental footprint compared to traditional internal combustion engines.
Safety Considerations
With electric propulsion, new considerations in terms of boating safety come into play, particularly around fire safety and electric boats. With the rise in electric outboard usage, there has been an emphasis on ensuring that boaters are aware of best practices for maintaining and operating these systems safely and dealing with any potential battery fires onboard. Proper battery management systems, regular inspections, and understanding the unique aspects of electric propulsion are crucial to preventing incidents. The industry has responded by providing robust guidelines and resources to help boaters adapt to these new technologies safely.
The Future of Boating
Looking ahead, the continued innovation of marine technology, along with the evolution of electric outboards like the Avator series, will likely play a significant role in the future of recreational boating. As manufacturers invest in improving battery life, charging infrastructure, and overall performance, electric outboards are expected to become more common on waterways around the world. Mercury Marine's advancements with the Avator series demonstrate a clear commitment to leading this charge, providing boaters with innovative, sustainable, and user-friendly options for their adventures on the water.
