Elco and Rock Proof Boats partner on new center console

1760R © Rock Proof Boats

Elco, pioneer in electric vessel propulsion for 130 years, and Rock Proof Boats, known for aluminum fishing boats built to take on tough waters, have partnered to produce factory-rigged all-electric outboard models.

The first in Rock Proof's ePro Series, the 1760R center console, easily tops 40kph with two anglers aboard.

Having ramped-up production of the 1760R prior to its debut, Rock Proof Boats has fully-loaded packages in stock and ready for delivery. "You can't go anywhere right now and buy a boat and electric motor on a trailer, hook it up and go out tomorrow and fish all day," said Brent Kauffman, Rock Proof Boats owner and founder. "With our new 1760R and Elco, we've made that happen." The boat is also offered in a tiller-steered version as well as with other sizes of Elco outboard motors.

Rigged to maximize speed in electric-lake fishing tournaments, the 5.2m L x 1.5m W 1760R's Elco electric outboard is powered by 23kWh lithium iron phosphate batteries. The combination allows the boat to travel over 24km at full throttle; range is around 80km at 8kph and nearly 160km at 6.4kph.

"Our pursuit has always been to bring electric propulsion mainstream," said Elco sales director Dean Heinemann. "That requires an experience comparable to fossil fuel boats, but cleaner, easier and with reduced noise and vibration—all benefits a renewable power solution provides. With the new Rock Proof 1760R, that's exactly what we can offer consumers today."

Built for electric propulsion, the Rock Proof 1760R incorporates dedicated battery storage aft, with access similar to an engine compartment. Forward storage accommodates additional propulsion and trolling motor batteries. An integrated 3.3 kW charging system connects to 120V or 240V household power, as well to roadside EV charging stations.

"The 1760R may be an aluminum fishing boat, but don't call it a jon boat. Fully welded inside and out, it features 3mm-thickness aluminum construction for exceptional durability. We run our channel from bow to stern to put the strength throughout the boat, not just every two feet running side-to-side like many competitors. It's altogether a different, better design," said Kauffman. The boat features an integrated 68-liter live well and factory-installed options include trolling motors, power poles, jack plates, locking or open rod storage and a custom aluminum trailer. Rock Proof Boats' website is www.rockproofboats.com.

Contact Elco Motor Yachts, 9 Front St. Lake George, NY 12845 USA. +1-877-411-3526. ; www.elcomotoryachts.com.