Inland & Canal Craft
Integrated parallel hybrid propulsion and high-output domestic power packages for narrowboats, widebeams, and Dutch barges.
Integrated Parallel Hybrid Architecture
Our parallel hybrid systems deliver the best feature-to-cost performance of all competing hybrid configurations. Connected directly to the propeller shaft alongside the standard diesel engine, the mechanical drive remains completely undisturbed for tidal river passages or high-current crossings.
Supplying UK and European canal craft since 2007, Hybrid Marine packages combine whisper-quiet electric cruising with massive 48V power generation while underway.
Narrowboat System Overview (10 kW)
Moving an average 20-ton narrowboat at typical canal cruising speeds (2 to 4 mph) requires approximately 3 to 5 kW. Our 10 kW brushless electric motor provides silent propulsion with plenty of power reserves for normal lock manoeuvring and quick stopping.
Under diesel power in restricted waters (running at 1,200 to 1,400 RPM), the system acts as a high-output generator producing 7 to 8 kW of 48V charging. Every 1 hour of engine cruising recharges enough battery energy for 1 to 2 hours of subsequent electric drive.
Continuous electric cruising endurance:
- Standard 48V / 400Ah Bank: 3 to 5 hours continuous electric drive
- Enhanced 48V / 800Ah Bank: 6 to 10 hours continuous electric drive
Beta 43 Based Hybrid
Shire Based Hybrid
Broad Beam & Dutch Barge Overview (20 kW)
Moving a heavy 35-ton broadbeam or Dutch barge at moderate canal speeds requires 5 to 10 kW. Our liquid-cooled 20 kW "V-Twin" electric motor assembly provides ample low-speed electric drive while keeping the full power of a 75–150 hp diesel engine available for channel crossings or high-river flows.
When motoring under diesel power, the broadbeam hybrid generates up to 12 to 15 kW of rapid battery charging via the hybrid generator and boost alternator bank.
Continuous electric cruising endurance:
- Enhanced 48V / 800Ah Battery Bank: 3 to 5 hours continuous broadbeam electric drive
- Intermittent Lock Cruising: Provides full-day lock-to-lock electric operation
Beta 105T with 20 kW V-Twin Hybrid Assembly
Inland Hybrid Experience & Features
Operational Highlights on the Waterway
- Whisper-Quiet Cruising: Navigate tree-lined canals silently without engine vibration or exhaust fumes.
- No Lock Idling: Eliminate smelly diesel exhaust while waiting in lock flights; communicate easily with your crew.
- Rapid Recharging: 1 hour of engine propulsion provides 1 to 2 hours of subsequent electric cruising.
- Silent Evening Domestic Power: Run 230V appliances, induction hobs, or washing machines through a high-power Victron inverter.
- Gas-Free Living: Power electric cooking in complete silence without running a separate generator in the morning or evening.
- Drastic Engine Hour Reduction: Cut annual diesel servicing costs, cylinder glazing, and carbon emissions.
System Package Components Reference
| Ref | Component Name | Narrowboat Package Specification (10 kW) |
|---|---|---|
| A | Main Marine Diesel Engine | Beta 43 to 56 or Shire 40 to 50 |
| B | Hybrid Motor/Generator | Liquid-cooled, brushless 10 kW electric drive / 5–6 kW generation |
| C | Standard Marine Gearbox | Standard PRM150 hydraulic gearbox |
| D | Boost Alternator Bank | +3 kW extra 48V charging (Total charge rate up to 8 kW) |
| E | Propeller Shaft Coupling | Standard 4″ shaft coupling flange |
| F | Smart Control Lever | Morse cable engine connection + electronic sensor for electric drive control |
| G | Control Electronics | Single hybrid control box & motor speed/direction controller |
| H | Display Unit | Full-colour helm control and battery monitoring display panel |
| I | Inverter / Charger | Victron 3 kVA (or 5 kVA for electric cooking setup) |
| J | 48V Battery Bank | 48V / 400Ah (Standard) or 800Ah (Enhanced) supplying propulsion & house loads |
| K | DC-DC Cross Charger | Cross charger supplying onboard 12V domestic buffer battery |
Download Detailed Inland Hybrid Package PDF Technical Specs
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