The boat responded immediately, turning easily in the choppy water. At even slower speeds, we were always in perfect control, with no need to raise our voices to communicate with a crew member tending ropes at the bow. We came into the dock in virtual silence, watched by the inevitable crowd that gathers unannounced any time someone is going to back into a berth. The Electric Wheel gave us perfect control going astern, despite having reduced torque in this particular installation. Everything was so quiet.
Electric power has yet to make a significant impact on cruising yachts.
The mind boggles at what performance the engine would be capable of with a lighter, more easily driven hull. Prices for the two units, including installation, are around 3,900 Pounds and 4,800 Pounds respectively. Dave believes the Electric Wheel is the way ahead, with obvious applications in bareboat charter fleets and in traditional boats where electric power saves space, weight, and ultimately expense - as well as satisfying the purists' desire for no intrusive mechanical devices. It is merely a matter of time before major manufacturers embrace this technology, and make it widely affordable. At the moment, Dave is busy working with individual owners and boatbuilders to spread the word.