OXE Marine has unveiled the world's largest diesel-electric hybrid outboard.
Dubbed the OXE Hybrid 450, the concept engine emits 450 horsepower -- 300 horsepower via the cutting edge OXE diesel outboard platform and an additional 150 horsepower from a 400 volt electric motor.
The new platform is the world's first hybridized diesel outboard in the higher power classes and is being showcased at the Miami International Boat Show.
In a press release, Anders Berg, CEO of OXE Marine AB, said: "The OXE Hybrid 450 combines the best of both worlds, the energy efficiency of diesel operation with the electric motor's steep torque curve and the possibility of a completely emission-free operation. Thanks to its flexibility, our concept engine provides reduced fuel consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions, while also being able to deliver additional power when needed, for example during acceleration when the fossil engine's consumption is extra high."
The Hybrid 450 is based upon OXE's popular OXE300 diesel outboard designed in partnership with BMW in 2020.
An integrated 400 volt electric motor connected to a lithium-ion battery provides the additional 150 horsepower. In combination with HVO100 biodiesel, the OXE Hybrid 450 offers reduced carbon dioxide emissions compared to a traditional gasoline-fueled outboard and a drastic decrease in fossil fuel consumption. As the electric motor drives the power transmission directly, it also serves as a generator to charge the battery during diesel operation.
The battery capacity of the Hybrid 450 has been dimensioned to enable quiet and emission-free operation during low-speed travel -- such as visiting a port or marina, fishing, or while traveling in water where gas-powered engines are prohibited. At the same time, the ability to charge the battery pack while underway means the system can also run additional energy-demanding equipment on board such as electronics or helm devices. The electric motor is located under the cowling and connected directly to the drive-belt, which also allows the motor to serve as an alternator. With this ability, it can charge the batteries while running in diesel mode.
OXE Marine will conduct field testing in spring 2023 with boat manufacturer Nimbus Group utilizing an OXE Hybrid 450 configured to a Nimbus T9, 30'6" (9.35m) centre console with a base weight of 6170 lbs (2800 kg). Expectations for large scale production availability and pricing are expected to be announced in the second half of 2023.
"Through our field tests, we have previously proven the great value of our engines when it comes to reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, and we are really looking forward to the results of the upcoming tests of the OXE Hybrid 450 together with Nimbus Group," added Berg.
In Canada, Quebec's BCI Marine serves as the national distributor for OXE outboards. In the U.S., OXE has a network of dealerships throughout the east and west coasts. Customers can access their dealer locator to find the location nearest to them.
You can get the first look at the new 450 Hybrid in the video below:
