Karmactive Team
The luxury boat maker Riva has built its first electric boat. The El-Iseo, stretching 27 feet (8.40 meters) long, runs entirely on battery power instead of gasoline. The boat represents a major step in electric propulsion for luxury vessels, combining modern technology with Riva’s signature craftsmanship.
“Riva El-Iseo isn’t only the world’s most beautiful full-electric powerboat, but also proof that investing in research and development opens up new paths to sustainability and environmental awareness,” says Alberto Galassi, who runs the Ferretti Group that owns Riva.
The Numbers That Matter
The boat’s electric motor packs quite a punch. It delivers 250 kW of power, with peak output reaching 300 kW. At full throttle, it hits 40 knots. For regular cruising, it comfortably runs at 25 knots.
What makes this interesting is the acceleration. The electric motor provides steeper acceleration curves than similar-sized boats with combustion engines, according to Riva’s testing data.
Smart Power Management
The boat comes with three speed settings, named after music terms:
- Adagio (slow mode): Runs at 5 knots to save power
- Andante (normal mode): Cruises at 25 knots
- Allegro (sport mode): Reaches top speed of 40 knots
The battery system includes a safety feature. When power drops to 20%, the boat automatically switches to slow mode. This ensures about 10 nautical miles of range to reach a charging station or mooring point.
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Safety First
The El-Iseo has earned RINA Category B certification. In practical terms, this means it can handle wind forces up to level 8 and waves over 4 meters high. This certification is rarely awarded to open boats this size.
The battery system uses two independent blocks in a Redundant Design Configuration. If one block experiences issues, the other maintains operation. The batteries charge from 20% to 80% in 75 minutes using fast charging.
Modern Meets Classic
Inside the boat, two touch screens show all the important information. A Simrad chartplotter (9 or 12 inches) handles navigation, while a 12-inch Böning screen shows battery life and boat systems. But Riva hasn’t forgotten its roots – the deck still features polished mahogany and stainless steel detailing, with a distinctive California Sky Blue hull.
Real-World Testing
Riva didn’t just test the El-Iseo in controlled conditions. They put it through comprehensive testing in the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge with the YCM E-Dock and the YCM E-Boat Rally, proving its capabilities in actual maritime conditions.
Why This Matters
Electric boats like the El-Iseo represent significant technological advancement in marine propulsion. While exact costs aren’t provided, the technology demonstrates how electric power can work effectively in luxury vessels. The El-Iseo also showcases how traditional boat design can evolve while maintaining high performance standards.
