Fétis Group has acquired a stake in Switch, the Vannes, Brittany-based electric and hybrid propulsion specialist, through Kinell, its brand dedicated to energy and propulsion systems. Financial terms have not been disclosed.
Founded in 2023, Switch designs and integrates electric propulsion, hybridisation and onboard energy-storage systems for new and existing professional vessels.
The company’s modular architecture includes Batmodul battery modules, Switchbox energy management and Autobox onboard piloting, allowing systems to be adapted to different vessel types and operating profiles.
The investment will combine Switch’s technology with Fétis Group’s engineering, integration and industrialisation capabilities.
Electric and hybrid solutions
The partners say the aim is to accelerate development and deployment of electric and hybrid solutions for professional fleets, covering everything from smaller workboats to vessels requiring higher-capacity energy architectures.
The deal also gives Switch access to a stronger financial and industrial platform as it moves towards larger retrofit and new-build projects.
Founder Gildas Olivier said the company’s first four projects ranged from €50,000 to €200,000, but it is now being approached for systems costing between €800,000 and €1m.
“We need to be more robust to gain customer trust,” he said.
The partners intend to offer shipowners and operators a more integrated package, from energy management to propulsion.
Fétis Group, headquartered in Nantes, works across off-highway and special vehicles, marine, energy and manufacturing, employing more than 650 people in nine countries.
Switch manufactures engines and power-transmission equipment for marine electrification applications.
