French startup Searider has introduced what it says is a breakthrough PWC (personal watercraft) in the form of the Searacer dual-motor electric water bike. With the project, the company is seeking to fuse the “adrenaline-pumping maneuverability” of a motorcycle with the swift, electric-powered dynamics of a jet ski—pledging a harmonious blend of velocity, agility, and eco-consciousness.

Behind Searider’s dedication to create revolutionary e-water mobility products is a team led by CEO Flavien Neyertz; Mechanical Engineer and Team Leader Angelos Kremmydas, Mechanical Engineers Thanos Theofanis and Giorgos Katevatis; and Exterior Vehicle Designer Michail Dimou.

Central to Searider’s innovation lies in its dedication to lightweight construction and “optimal” performance, according to Dimou. The company is hoping to defy the convention of PWCs, which he says have been synonymous with bulky, burdensome frameworks. While a typical “lightweight” PWC model weighs in at around 428 lb (194 kg), the Searacer is a fraction of the weight of a conventional model at a mere 143 lb (65 kg). The substantial reduction in mass is a key factor in the Searacer’s agility and responsiveness on the water.

Rather than taking the more conventional path of retrofitting an electric propulsion system to a cumbersome PWC, Searider drew inspiration from the world of motorcycles and scooters by prioritizing the development of a compact, streamlined, and lightweight chassis. The approach not only enhanced nimbleness but also resulted in optimized use of its electric powertrain.

Powered by dual 33-kW electric motors, the single-seater has a top speed of 48 mph (77 km/h). While these figures may not eclipse the records set by ICE (internal combustion engine) propelled PWCs, Dimou says that they are commendable for an electric jet ski, particularly considering its dimensions and weight.

A standout feature of the Searacer is its battery pack, delivering up to 50 min of ride time on a charge. Its detachable design facilitates convenient recharging and enables swift battery replacement to easily extend ride time.

At the Geneva International Motor Show last month, Searider was part of the 5 Mouvements of Renault, a program with five French startups in the mobility sector revolving around a natural element—earth, water, air, or snow—with groundbreaking, compact, and high-performance vehicles. For the collaboration combining the companies’ two design DNAs, Renault called the Searacer by Flavien Neyertz the first electric jet ski.

The other startups Renault highlighted were the Reverso Project by Antoine Simon, with “the first folding sailing dinghy;” the Evol bike by Olivier Le Quellec, “the first electric BMX;” the Moonbike by Nicolas Muron, “the first electric snow scooter;” and the Plume high-end efoil by Etienne Monbereau.

For a more leisurely excursion, Searider is developing the Seacruiser. Described as “reminiscent of an e-scooter for the seas, exuding vintage charm,” it has a top speed of 34 mph (55 km/h) and nearly double the runtime of the Searacer at 90 min. Its slightly heavier frame of 154 lb (70 kg) is said to enhance stability.

The company is positioning the Searacer and Seacruiser at the upper end of the market. The Searacer is available for preorder at €27,950 ($30,475), while the Seacruiser starts at €22,800 ($24,860). The price points reflect the premium nature of the electric PWCs, “catering to a discerning clientele that values innovation and sustainability.”

The company has teased the introduction of a third model called the Seacross slated for release later this year. While specifics remain scarce, the upcoming addition will broaden the company’s product portfolio for an even wider array of water enthusiasts.