The automotive and marine industries have always been close, but that connection is getting even tighter.
Austrian boat builder Frauscher, which has been making major headway in the North American market, has linked up with renowned German automaker Porsche to produce a 30-foot electric boat due next year.
The boat will connect Porsche's emerging electric power technology from its all-new Taycan Sport Sedan with Frauscher's premium marine luxury.
The new model will be called the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air.
In terms of power, the boat will utilize Porsche's 800-volt technology that allows for both fast-charging DC stations and standard AC charging points, thus giving users more practical options for charging, transport, and use. Below deck will feature a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery bank
Company president Stefan Frauscher, whose family started the company in 1927 in Vienna, said in a company statement: “Our boat is perfect as a day cruiser for a relaxed swimming trip, for example, or as a tender for a superyacht to make an excursion to a coastal town.”
“Electric drives are also increasingly important in our industry as well. On the one hand, they are increasingly enjoying more social acceptance, and on the other our customers are very happy about the advantages of electromobility, namely that it’s quiet, odourless and reliable,” added Frauscher.
“We stand for state-of-the-art, high-performance and sustainable luxury – and we are redefining this concept. Our goal is to inspire our customers and make their dreams come true. Like our sports cars, the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air offers exceptional performance and luxury experiences,” added Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman at Porsche AG.
The new platform will be based around the existing Frauscher 858 Fantom Air, which features an 8.67 m (28'3") LOA with a 2.49 m (8'2") beam.
Similar to the gas-powered Frauscher 858 Fantom Air, the electric version will also accommodate up to nine passengers. A stern swimming leads to a generous lounge area with two comfortable sun pads. A central aisle also connects the stern area to the free-standing helm and cockpit. Two upholstered benches in the bow offer additional seating. Other features include two bimini tops for shade, an electric anchor winch with a stainless steel anchor, a premium sound system and a refrigerator.
Porsche will play a significant role in the design of interior, taking cues from its all-electric Macan. They will also be designing the helm station, steering wheel, console, seating, and upholstery.
Only 25 units will be made with the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air expected to debut in early 2024.
Those looking for more information can sign up at Fraushcer x Porsche. The site shows a countdown seemingly ending on Friday, October 6th, 2023. The only notable industry event around that time is IBEX 2023 taking place in Tampa, Florida from October 3rd-5th.
The move by the Austrian boatbuilder offers another key to the emerging automotive/marine overlap. In just the last two years, both industries have seen significant resource sharing. Notable examples include GM buying a 25% stake in Pure Watercraft, and Silent Yachts & Volkswagen uniting to mix their electric drive technology. Yamaha and Toyota are also working together to develop a hydrogen engine for marine use.
