Over the last decade there have been tremendous technological strides made in electric motor and battery fields. And while the primary application for these all-electric powertrains has previously been automobiles, the fact these units have grown increasingly compact and increasingly potent has lead to modern EV powertrains being adopted in other sectors, including the world of personal watercrafts. And after an extensive development cycle, Monaco-based startup Searider has just harnessed the power of contemporary electric powertrains to deliver a thoroughly state-of-the-art zero-emissions high-performance jetski known as the Searacer.
The Searider Searacer hugely differs from existing jetski designs, not just through its fully-electric powertrain, but also through its body and hull which are modeled after modern motorcycle designs, with a sleek superbike-esque fairing-style body, side covers, and a waspish mono-posto tail section. What’s more, the Searacer not only boasts a set of moto-style handlebars, but it also uses a traditional motorcycle-style throttle — in lieu of the standard finger throttle found on most modern jet skis. Offered in three color options, this moto-inspired PWC also sports an LED headlight arrangement.
Set behind a carbon fiber cover is the PWC’s removable battery pack, which offers 50 minutes of autonomy per charge. At the heart of the Searacer is a dual motor powertrain that collectively makes 33.5kW (45hp). This may not sound like much compared to modern petrol-powered PWCs, however, the Searacer manages to tip the scales at an extremely svelte 143lbs — meaning it weighs around one-third of even lightweight jetski models like the Yamaha Superjet or Sea-Doo SPARK TRIXX. This sub-150lb figure helps the PWC to make the most of the 45 horses it has on tap, with the Searacer ultimately being capable of reaching a top speed of around 50mph — not as fast as other high-performance Jetski models, though still a respectable velocity. Alongside the motorcycle-inspired Searacer, Searider has also unveiled a Vespa-style PWC known as the Seacruiser that boasts a 33-kW (30-hp) dual-motor powertrain offering a 35-mph top speed and up to 90 minutes of ride time per charge.
Slated for a release over the summer of 2024, the Searider Searacer is available for preorder now, with pricing starting at €27,950 ($40,450).
