Ribcraft has unveiled an electric version of its Pro 480 rigid-hulled inflatable boat, expanding its portfolio of battery-powered RHIBs aimed at professional, commercial and government operators.
The Pro 480 Electric is powered by a RAD 40 electric outboard and has been developed as a UK-built demonstrator. Ribcraft said the new configuration is intended to deliver cleaner and quieter operations while maintaining the operational flexibility of combustion-powered platforms.
The 4.8m-long Pro 480 has previously been deployed across defense, search and rescue (SAR), and commercial applications. In its electric configuration, the vessel retains the same hull form and layout, including Ribcraft’s Deep-V Hull, hypalon tubes, and commercial-grade composite construction.
As well as being fitted with a 40kW electric outboard, the demonstrator vessel features a 21kWh battery system. According to Ribcraft, the propulsion system offers digital drive-by-wire control and AC and DC fast-charging capability, and has a lower acoustic signature than internal combustion engines.
Preliminary performance trials were carried out with two personnel on board. Ribcraft reported an operational speed range of 4-30kts, and said optimal efficiency was achieved at 12-16kts, with energy consumption of between 1.53kWh and 1.83kWh per nautical mile, a profile suited to coastal patrol and security operations.
At lower speeds of 4-6kts, energy consumption ranged from 0.63-1.27kWh per nautical mile, supporting low-speed patrol, harbor security and station-keeping tasks. At higher speeds of 18-22kts, the system drew between 27.9kW and 37.3kW, with maximum tested speeds of 24-30kts requiring up to 45.6kW.
Ribcraft said the electric configuration enables operations that benefit from reduced noise and zero local emissions, including work in environmentally sensitive areas and missions requiring a lower acoustic profile.
The company also highlighted reduced maintenance requirements and lower through-life operating costs than conventional propulsion systems.
According to Toby Adams, CEO of Ribcraft, the vessel represents a step forward in the company’s electrification strategy. “The Pro 480 Electric demonstrates how clean propulsion can be integrated without compromising the rugged, operational performance professionals demand,” he said. “With the first demonstrator now operational in the UK, customers can assess this next-generation capability firsthand.”
Ribcraft said the Pro 480 Electric is part of a broader effort to align professional small craft operations with decarbonization targets while maintaining mission performance.
In related news, commissioning is complete for Singapore’s first fully electric tug