Toyota is developing a version of its Ponam
28V motorboat with a parallel hybrid propulsion system. The nautical powertrain
combines a 3.0-liter four-cylinder direct-injection diesel engine (marinized
from the Land Cruiser Prado) rated at 256 horsepower with an electric motor
good for another 48 hp.
Juiced by an 11-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the
system allows for pure electric propulsion when the diesel engine isn't
required, moving the 28-foot vessel around silently and without exhaust fumes.
Toyota is giving the experimental watercraft to the
municipal government to use in the Port of Tokyo during the forthcoming Olympic
games in 2020. It'll also be used for canal tours as part of a feasibility
study to take place from 2018 through 2021. If everything goes well, Toyota
could be producing hybrid boats, just like it does hybrid cars, in the near
future.
Many
larger powerboats incorporate sideways-mounted electric motors alongside their
primary diesel engines, but use the separate electric propellers mostly for
maneuvering into port. Toyota's system appears to take the idea one step (or
stroke) further.
