GM Invests in Electric Boat Maker Pure Watercraft | Automotive News

General Motors Invests in Electric Boat Technology

General Motors has acquired a 25% ownership position in Pure Watercraft, an electric boating firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. This strategic investment demonstrates GM’s expanding focus on electric vehicle (EV) technology, extending beyond traditional automobiles to encompass marine applications.

The move aligns with GM’s previously announced plan to allocate $35 billion towards the advancement of electric and autonomous technologies by the year 2025.

Pure Watercraft's Electric Outboard Systems

Pure Watercraft specializes in the creation of fully electric outboard motor systems, branded as Pure Outboard. These systems are designed to function as direct replacements for gasoline-powered motors typically ranging from 25 to 50 horsepower.

Beyond component sales, Pure Watercraft has established collaborations with prominent boat manufacturers to offer fully assembled electric boats.

Current offerings include electric versions of popular boat types such as pontoon boats, fishing vessels, and rigid inflatable boats.

Benefits of Electric Propulsion

According to Pure Watercraft, their electric systems offer significant advantages over conventional gasoline engines, notably requiring no routine maintenance.

Furthermore, these systems eliminate emissions associated with fossil fuel combustion, contributing to cleaner waterways.

The range provided by Pure Outboard is substantial, capable of supporting a nearly four-hour, 20-mile fishing excursion with a 15% battery reserve, as indicated on the company’s website.

Recent Funding and Collaboration with GM

Last September, Pure Watercraft secured $23 million in Series A funding, spearheaded by L37, to scale up production capabilities. This occurred nine years following the company’s founding by CEO Andy Rebele.

The recent investment from GM will facilitate collaborative efforts in the co-development and commercialization of advanced battery technologies.

GM intends to integrate its existing technological expertise into a diverse range of applications.

Expanding Electric Mobility Beyond Automotive

This investment signifies a growing trend of electric technologies extending beyond conventional vehicles and aircraft.

Other startups in the electric watercraft space, such as Arc, which has raised $7 million, and Zin Boats, are also actively developing electric boat solutions.

GM's Broader Mobility Strategy

This venture represents a notable step for GM, which is actively exploring the application of its technologies in various mobility sectors, including rail and aerospace.

Earlier this year, GM partnered with Wabtec to create electric freight locomotives powered by hydrogen fuel cells and batteries.

Additionally, a collaboration with Liebherr-Aerospace is underway to jointly develop a hydrogen fuel cell demonstration system for use in aircraft.