Voltari sets new distance record for battery electric boats

By Sam Phillips

2 Feb 2023

Electric boats are making waves in the marine world - and Canadian firm Voltari is hoping its new speed boat will move the game on even further after a record-breaking 91-mile expedition.

The Voltari 260 is the firm's first electric boat, and mates a 550kW motor with a 142kWh battery. That means it can reach speed of up to 60mph, although likely not when it's trying to set a distance record.

The machine completed its 91-mile journey between Key Largo in the Florida Keys and Bimini in the Bahamas in 20 hours, which Voltari claims is the longest overseas trip undertaken by an electric power boat. To keep the weight down for the journey to the Bahamas, only essential crew were on board.

Made from carbon fibre and a mix of high-grade materials, the electric vessel features a 24-degree performance hull, along with a fully integrated control and navigation system. Voltari promises a “super boating experience with unmatched acceleration and handling".

Priced at $450,000 (£395,000), the machine even features a Rockford Fosgate audio system that's twinned with Limited custom lighting – so when you're not powering through the waves you can host quite the party on the boat's rear deck.

“We created the Voltari 260 to provide freedom to explore open waters on long run times and with the success of this trip, the team has witnessed firsthand the capabilities of our newest innovation in this rapidly emerging industry,” said Cam Heaps, founder and CEO of Voltari.

“The Bahamas crossing was the first step in proving to the world how we provide a thrilling boating experience with minimal impact to the environment and maximum enjoyment.”