Ilmor just introduced its revolutionary – and colorful – new ION all-electric outboard motor for small boats and tenders to the U.S. at the big Miami show. It had introduced it to the European market, where it would be popular on lakes and canals that have regulations governing gas engines, earlier at the METS trade show in Amsterdam.
The ION’s drive runs on a 48V circuit, and it has an output of 6kW, or around 8-hp. Ilmor says that’s enough to power a 24-foot pontoon boat or tender up to 6 knots. There’s also a “boost mode” that adds another knot or so for a brief spurt, if you have to move quickly for some reason.
Ilmor is working with battery manufacturers to develop both lithium-ion and lead acid battery packs for the motor. Lithium-ion batteries would be lighter, and have a longer life cycle, while lead acid would be considerably cheaper.
The ION has a seaweed protection feature and fully integrated power tilt and trim. The parts requiring cooling are incorporated in the underwater housing for passive cooling.
The ION is instantly recognizable by its integrated RGB LED lighting, a visual indication that the motor is running. It has other modes for docking and charging.
Ilmor is working on ION prototypes now at its Michigan factory. It hopes to have the ION ready for OEM and retrofit applications before long. Read more:
