Pulse 58, the first motor boat from RS Electric Boats
RS Sailing has built a strong reputation in the sport sailing industry since its creation in 1957. Its new subsidiary, RS Electric Boats, opens a new path for the company by presenting its first motor boat. The Pulse 58 is a 5.80 meter semi-rigid boat, equipped with an electric motor, powered by a 57 kWh battery pack. The thruster under the nozzle, without shaft, is retractable. Two tunnels improve the hydrodynamics of the hull.
Continuing RS Sailing's ecological dynamics
The new Pulse 58 is part of an environmental approach initiated by RS Sailing for its yachts. The hull of the RIB will be built using natural fibers of flax and basalt and recycled PET resin. "RS has started an eco-friendly approach with the RS21, with electric propulsion, construction materials, storage thinking and logistics optimization. We partner with SailGP with our sport catamarans. Their buoys already move electrically. The electric RIB is a logical next step. We are in the concept of the electric urban car for small displacements. The nautical industry is still a bit behind the automobile industry in terms of electric power", says Nicolas Honor, director of RS Sailing France.
Supporting sailing events
RS is counting on its presence in the sailing world to get its electric boat off the ground. "Eventually, events like the Olympic Games or major sailing races will have to make efforts in terms of CO2 emissions. If we don't follow a GC32 or an America's Cup with the Pulse 58, there is a natural entry market in the sailing world. We are also targeting inland waterways. The extension of the range could open up to harbor services, for example" illustrates Nicolas Honor.
1st RS motorboats to be marketed in 2020
The first Pulse 58 will be presented at the Boot Dusseldorf in 2020. Marketing will start at this occasion, through the current RS Sailing distributors. "All current RS Sailing representatives are involved. The network can be expanded or changed depending on the market", says Nicolas Honor.
