Latest jet ski is electric

Personal watercraft (PWC) do not enjoy the best of reputations; seen by many as little more than a cause of nuisance noise to people and marine life, ‘Jet Skis’ are best enjoyed away from beaches and shallower waters. But now an American company hopes its new design of near-silent electric PWC will win fans both above and below the waves.

The Eco Watercraft Company has developed a low-maintenance, electric-powered jet ski that produces no emissions at point of use and can reach a top speed of 50mph.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nL5IaSc-dnU

A spokesperson for the Environmental transport Association (ETA) said: “Electric cars tend to grab all the headlines but the technology is being applied to all kinds of vehicles.”Although the American government has compelled manufacturers of jet skis to swap two-stroke engines for more efficient and quieter four-stroke designs, many lakes across the country continue to ban this type of craft. The Eco Watercraft jet ski will not be subject to restrictions of this kind.

Electric watercraft

Electric jet skis take advantage of the characteristics of electric motors; they are easy to maintain and can produce large amounts of power without needing high engine revolutions. Whilst currently hampered by heavy batteries, the technology is developing at a fast pace.

What is the ETA?

The ETA provides cyclists with green breakdown cover and green insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.