The implementation of electric propulsion systems in the world of sports is a constant that has gained momentum in recent years like never before. The most evident example can be found in the world of cycling, where electric bicycles are gaining prominence by leaps and bounds. Water sports were not going to be left behind, and Electric Sea, a startup born in Barcelona, has created an electric thruster for paddle surf boards and kayaks.
It all started more than seven years ago when Iñigo Barrón and Fran Martín, who then worked in the world of technology consulting, began to develop some projects focused on propulsion systems to modernize the nautical sector. Initially, they created small boats with electric propulsion systems, but they have ended up focusing on the technology behind these electric propulsion systems, leaving the boats aside.
The product they have developed and hope to start marketing this summer is a portable electric thruster that attaches to small boats such as kayaks or paddle surf boards. This new technology complements the athlete while rowing or sailing, but also when returning to shore or covering short distances. The thruster has rechargeable and removable batteries, has a range of up to two hours, and weighs less than three kilos. It works with a remote control with which the speed can be regulated, allowing up to three speeds. Of course, it is an aid, and the greatest effort to move in the water still falls on the athlete.
Another application for which it can serve is maritime rescue. The thruster can be of great help in complex rescue tasks and, according to Electric Sea co-founder and commercial director, Fran Martín, they are in talks to be able to implement it in this sector in the future. They are also looking for European distributors, as they prefer to focus their efforts on creation, development, and production, and not so much on sales.
"We have everything ready to start manufacturing and assembling," explains Martín. The battery cells for the thruster are made in China or Korea and will be assembled in Rubí. The electronics will be developed in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat; the engineering, in El Papiol, and the plastic injection for the device, in Sabadell.
The selling price will be approximately 1,800 euros and will include all the necessary components for its use. According to its creators, it is not a product that aims to enter the same market as high-power motorized surfboards or fly boards, an aquatic toy that allows one to rise above the water and has become very fashionable.
Electric Sea has relied on funding provided by the two founders and three other partners, totaling 500,000 euros. With these resources, they have developed the product and prepared their commercialization strategy.