Harbour Master’s Verdict: Can an Electric RIB Deliver?

April 30 2026May 03 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The Electric RIB with RAD Tested

While I’m not yet convinced that electric propulsion for motorboats is the future, I find its evolution worth following.

In Livington Harbor, senior harbour officer Gregory Patani evaluated a RAD-powered Ribcraft Rigid Inflatable Boat during intensive patrol operations.

Over several days, the crew conducted towing, river patrols, and daily harbour duties. Initial impressions were strongly positive.

The silent propulsion of this electric RIB improved communication with mooring holders and visitors without stopping or approaching closely. Manoeuvrability proved exceptional, with turns achieved within half a boat length.

The vessel reached 20 knots and delivered smooth, quiet performance. Battery life supported full working days, with overnight charging ensuring readiness.

He concludes the system suits commercial harbour operations.

This video was published on the RAD Propulsion YouTube channel.

There’s more to see here about this electric RAD propulsion system.

First Electric Ribcraft Pro 480 Powered by RAD

January 23 2026April 08 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The Electric Ribcraft Pro 480

I am absolutely in favor of innovation, but I remain far from convinced about using electric outboard motors.

The engineers have without any doubt my admiration and respect.

But at this stage, I see more drawbacks than advantages.

I have written an article discussing this topic in detail: Why an Electric Outboard Is Not the Better Choice Now.

This electric Ribcraft is fitted with the full RAD system. It features a console-integrated battery. The RAD 40 has 180° electric steering which is admirable.

Acceleration is immediate (as is with some EVs). Top speeds exceed 30 knots, though sustained performance depends on load, sea state, and throttle management of course.

And then there’s the claimed range of a full nine hours. It almost seems too good to be true.

I always wonder how this figure is calculated. Could it be also overestimated, similar to what we often see with electric cars?

Let’s see how the market reacts.

If anyone at Ribcraft or RAD reads my blogpost, I’m more than happy to spend 9 hours at sea with this combination.

As long as there is a RIB with a combustion engine nearby.

This video was published on the RAD Propulsion YouTube channel.

Want to see more Ribcraft videos, here they are. Also interested in RAD propulsion, get some info here

Specs

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RS Pulse 63 RAD Propelled Supports The Boat Race

May 02 2025November 29 2025 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The RS Pulse 63 RAD Propelled Shines

RS Electric Boats were honoured to support the 2025 Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.

They supported the race with two RS Pulse 63s. These boats were powered by RAD Propulsion (find out more about RAD).

The RS Pulse 63 RAD Propelled Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) joined the support fleet. This is the first time they were included.

This is a positive step towards a more sustainable future for this historic event.

I dropped more videos on this RIB brand: The RS Pulse 63.

This video was published on the RS Electric Boats YouTube channel.

You can find more info of the RS Pulse in this post. Check out the specs.

RAD40 Electric Outboard 180-Degree Steering Amazes

August 04 2023April 02 2025 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Ingenious 180-Degree Steering

Head into the RSE workshop and take a closer look at the latest Pulse 63 as we examine the details of the RAD40 electric motor and its stunning steering capabilities.

Below you can see actual footage of two RS63 electric RIBs making circles on the spot.

RAD40 Electric Outboard 180-Degree Steering@ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Home — RAD40 Electric Outboard 180-Degree Steering

I’ve collected some more news and videos on the RS63 electric RIB. Just click here and see the path they covered so far.

This video was published on the RS Electric Boats YouTube channel.