French electric boatbuilder Naviwatt has relocated its headquarters and restructured, moving away from boatbuilding to concentrate on electric propulsion integration, designing low-carbon vessels and project management.
The company, which among other projects electrified three boats used in the 2024 Paris Olympic parade on the Seine, has moved from Arzon to join a cluster of other high-tech companies specialising in maritime construction in Vannes, Morbihan.
The company has also sold its rigid inflatable boat (RIB) and harbour shuttle catamaran manufacturing operations.
Founded in 2008 by naval architect Yannick Wileveau, Naviwatt launched its first electric boat, the Zéphyr, in 2009, followed by an electric river shuttle and electric RIBs.
Environmental regulations
Over the years, the Naviwatt team, which includes five engineers, has designed a range of electric boats including small tourist vessels, passenger ships, sailboats and catamarans.
The yard has also specialised in repowering vessels, replacing internal combustion engines with electric motors.
Now the company says it wants to collaborate closer with production boatbuilders in an advisory capacity, supporting them on projects to ensure they meet environmental and sustainable regulations.
Expanding market
As president of the French Association for Electric Boats (AFBE), Wileveau is is well-positioned to understand this rapidly expanding market.
And he pointed out that France is advanced in electric refitting, with pilot projects emerging in segments such as trawling, towing, port services, and passenger transport with few other countries carrying out so many refits.
And Wileveau says that while an electric boat may be more expensive to buy – up to 50% depending on the specifications – it requires no maintenance other than a minor annual check up.
There’s also the bonus of no emissions.
