ePropulsion Partners with Boat Rental Company to Bring Sustainable Solutions to the Waterways of France

Electric Canal Boat Enhances Les Canalous Fleet, underscoring their commitment to sustainable solutions to reduce CO2 emissions

ePropulsion, a global leader and market challenger in marine electric propulsion systems, has collaborated with French boat rental company, Les Canalous to successfully create its first fully electric canal boat.

Les Canalous is a leading license-free barge and boat hire company in France, boasting a fleet of over 300 vessels, offering a variety of experiences, varying from short houseboat cruises to exploring some of France’s most prestigious and picturesque sites. 

ePropulsion has upgraded the Lapeniche-s, a six-cabin hybrid vessel accommodating up to 12 guests. Designed to cater to the expanding rental market, the upgrades emphasise automation and user-friendly operation.

Lapeniche-s is powered by ePropulsion’s innovative I-20 inboard motor, delivering a maximum input power of 20 kW. The vessel is equipped with a 5” digital display screen, remote control smart throttle, and four G102-100 10 kWh batteries.

When charging stations are scarce, holidaymakers can benefit from the integration of an onboard generator, supplied by Solé Iberia, which runs on HVO fuels.

HVO fuels offer substantial environmental benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 90%, the utilisation of renewable energy sources made from waste cooking oil, and decreased dependency on fossil fuels. The use of HVO fuels promotes better disposal of waste cooking oils, thus contributing to a more sustainable environment. The innovative use of an HVO generator also allows the boat to operate independently of electric charging stations, which can be scarce along the scenic French canals.

This project follows the recent expansion of ePropulsion France and underscores the company’s dedication to the French market and the electric boating industry.

Danny Tao, Co-Founder and CEO of ePropulsion said, “We are committed to revolutionising the sustainable boating experience and are thrilled to deliver our first electric diesel hybrid canal boat in Europe. This unique upgrade for Les Canalous represents a significant innovation, and we look forward to feedback from renters using Lapeniche-s this summer.”

Alfred Carignant, CEO of Les Canalous Group, added: “We have been very impressed with the sustainable upgrades that our popular vessel, Lapeniche-s has received. We would like to thank ePropulsion for ensuring the success of this project, as we prepare to enter our busiest season.

“Moving forward, we will continue to develop electric solutions, recognising how this approach enhances the customer experience by allowing silent, vibration-free, and odourless navigation. It provides a superior way to enjoy the richness of France’s waterways compared to traditional thermal engine boats.”

Lapeniche-s is available for rent this summer, for more information please visit – lescanalous.com/bateau/lapeniche-s.

For more information on ePropulsion visit epropulsion.com.