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The initiative has the merit of having been launched. The announcement of E-Lektra Marine marks a milestone in the evolution of energy systems on board cruising yachts. The Beneteau and Fountaine Pajot groups are structuring a common approach to electric propulsion and onboard energy management.
A common industrial platform for yachts from 9 to 24 meters
The E-Lektra Marine joint venture is 50% owned by each of the two groups. It comprises seven brands: Beneteau, Jeanneau, Lagoon, Excess, Fountaine Pajot, Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts and Dufour.
The aim is to develop a technical platform covering yachts from 9 to 24 meters, with 100% electric or hybrid configurations. Systems are planned for both low and high voltage, depending on unit size and application.
The desire to propose a common technical base open to other construction sites demonstrates a quest for standardization. It remains to be seen how this base will be adopted by construction sites and users.
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A complete energy architecture on board
The project is not limited to propulsion. It integrates the entire on-board energy management system.
The systems developed must coordinate energy production, storage and consumption. This includes solar power, batteries, propulsion and on-board living equipment.
Tools for monitoring and optimizing energy flows are also planned, to adapt consumption to navigation conditions. The platform should improve communication and exchanges between all this equipment, which needs to speak "the same language".
Identified industrial partners
E-Lektra Marine relies on several specialized companies.
Alternatives Energies, based in La Rochelle, is involved in systems integration. The company has been working for several years on electrical solutions for the maritime sector, and has become a central element of the system.
Cirtem, based in Toulouse, is in charge of energy conversion. EVE System, based in Lyon, develops the batteries used in these architectures. Together, they form a technical chain covering the main on-board energy functions. The creation of E-lektra Marine should increase the volume of business generated by this equipment, leading logically to economies of scale, and thus to a reduction in the final selling price.
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Continuity with existing solutions
Prior to this joint venture, the two groups were already using electrical systems on certain units.
Beneteau offered low-voltage solutions on yachts up to 12 meters. Fountaine Pajot used hybrid systems on larger catamarans, under the Joool brand. However, dealers and end-users are still reluctant to use the Joool brand, mainly because of its considerably higher cost than a combustion version.
The Jeanneau Sealoft 480, presented this winter at the Paris Nautic Show, uses a solution developed by Fisher Panda. Fountaine Pajot has also integrated hybrid solutions on some recent models.
In addition to the product offering, we are also structuring a worldwide network to provide services and maintenance for these new equipment.
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A roll-out target for 2030
The two groups are announcing a target of 10-15% electric sailboats on the world market by 2030. The solutions developed will concern both new boats and retrofits, with conversion offers for existing units.
E-lektra Marinee is a concrete response to market and usage trends. But one question remains. Can this common platform really establish itself as a shared technical base in a sector where uses, programs and constraints vary greatly from one boat to another? Between coastal navigation, long-distance cruising and intensive use, energy needs differ. And on board, the priority is often simplicity, reliability and the ability to intervene rapidly in the event of a breakdown. And all at the lowest possible cost.
