Fort Lauderdale, FL-based marine EV manufacturer Voltari today launched an electric patrol boat designed for government, military, and security applications. Built for speed and precision, the Patrol 26 RIB is designed to deliver reliable performance with zero noise pollution and emissions.

The company aims to solidify its status as the top contender in the patrol boat class with features like trimmable outdrive, contra-rotating propellers, and a dual-prop military-grade drive to outperform any ICE boat of similar size and power.

“We are thrilled about the launch of the Patrol 26 RIB as it marks a significant shift for electric vessels in extra-rugged conditions,” said Cam Heaps, Founder and CEO of Voltari. “We’re not just building a boat, we’re offering government institutions and militaries a solution that combines high speed, minimal environmental impact, and exceptional durability.”

Now in production, ISED Canada has acquired a Patrol 26 CC variant for delivery to the Canadian Coast Guard in December for testing in the Pacific Ocean off British Columbia. A prominent naval defense contractor is also demoing the Patrol 26 Pilot and has ordered two units for a U.S. Navy security contract in San Diego.

“We’ve received significant interest from institutional and government fleet buyers based on our ability to provide operational, fuel, and general maintenance cost savings of right around $1 million per vessel over 10 years,” said Tim Markou, President of Voltari. “As a result, we are not only helping government fleets achieve operational goals but also contributing to a more sustainable future on a global scale.”

The Patrol 26 RIB features a lightweight carbon fiber hull and a 24-degree deadrise deep-V oceangoing design, the combination said to allow the vessel to outpace any hydrofoil application in both forward and reverse operations. Shock suspension seating ensures crew comfort during demanding missions.

For enhanced situational awareness in low-light conditions, it features a fixed-mount FLIR thermal night vision camera. A secure dry storage area near the helm is designed to accommodate marine flares as well as lethal and nonlethal weapons.

Peak and continuous power of 550 and 425 kW, respectively, enable a top speed of over 55 mph (89 km/h) and a cruise speed of 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h). The range is up to 100 mi (161 km) at idle or 30 mi (48 km) at a 25-mph (40-km/h) cruise speed.

Operators seeking additional protection from the elements can upgrade to the Patrol 26 Pilot, which features climate control and can comfortably accommodate up to four passengers. When not in use, the front mounting rear jockey seats can be easily folded up, maximizing space for movement and enhancing the overall experience on the water.

This launch of the Patrol 26 RIB follows the transition of Voltari’s flagship model, the 260, from pre-order to full production, which is now available with a delivery time of three to four months. Last year, that boat made history by completing the first and longest open-ocean journey for an electric vehicle, crossing the Gulf Stream from Key Largo, Florida, to Bimini, Bahamas, on a single charge.

The company pitches its Voltari 260 as the world’s first fully electric performance boat with zero emissions and “unmatched”—1350 N·m (996 lb·ft)—torque, capable of reaching over 55 mph for conventional use. However, the 91-mi (130-km) Gulf Stream trip on a single battery charge was completed in less than 20 h at a leisurely and constant cruising speed of 5 mph (8 km/h) carrying only essential crew members.

The Caribbean voyage served as the official unveiling of the Voltari 260 just before the company’s participation at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show. The company aims to take advantage of the market opportunity and revolutionize the boat industry as it transitions to electromobility. The company cites a recent ResearchAndMarkets report that forecasts the electric boat market to be valued at $5 billion in 2021 and to reach about $16.6 billion by 2031.

Voltari was created when Heaps and his partner Markou combined ultralight aerospace-grade carbon-fiber construction with a high-performance hull design and added power and propulsion systems from LTS Marine, a Canadian innovator in marine power technologies now owned by Voltari.

Like the Patrol 26 RIB, the 260 has a peak power of 550 kW, for a 60-mph (97-km/h) top speed in ocean conditions. It is equipped with a 142-kW·h lithium-ion battery pack.

The 26-ft (7.9-m) boat has a 28.1-ft (8.6-m) overall length and weighs 7000 lb (3175 kg). Equipment includes fully integrated control and navigation systems with twin 17-in Garmin touchscreens, Rockford Fosgate sound system, Lumitec digital custom lighting control, and heat-dissipating Alcantara interior.

The price of the boat starts at $450,000 excluding an add-on charger and trailer configuration.