Marine engineering firm Ecomar Propulsion has partnered with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) for a research and development (R&D) project aimed at bringing the manufacture of key parts used in zero emissions electric boats to the UK.
Funded by the Scottish Inward Investment Catalyst Fund, the project seeks to bring production to Scotland to overcome a global supply chain shortage of electric outboard motors, which are currently made in Japan.
Ecomar will tap into the knowledge of those at NMIS and the Future Electrical Machines Manufacturing Hub, which is leading research in electrical machines and manufacturing to put the UK at the forefront of green energy.
Eugene Bari, chief executive of Hampshire-based Ecomar Propulsion, said: “We’re looking to establish a Scottish manufacturing base and revolutionise shipbuilding across the UK as we edge towards a decarbonised marine sector.
“The UK shipping industry has historically been seen as a polluter, but there is a real potential for clean boats in Scotland.
“For the next generation of outboard motor, we need to establish a new, shorter supply chain and refine product development with sustainability at the forefront from the outset.”
Ecomar researches, develops and produces electric and hybrid hydrogen marine propulsion systems and have set a goal to reduce maritime greenhouse gas emissions by 10 million tonnes within 10 years.
NMIS is part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and provides access to expertise and resources that help de-risk innovation, turn ideas into a reality and solve real world manufacturing and engineering challenges.
It has recently announced two other R&D projects aimed at revolutionising UK ship building in collaboration, with industry partners including BAE Systems and Malin Marine Consultants.
Gladys Benghalia, head of electrification manufacturing programmes at the NMIS, said: “Using our expertise and knowledge of electrification we’ll support this project by identifying a clean and efficient supply chain for electric outboard motors.
“Scotland has a legacy for shipbuilding and together with manufacturers large and small, we can establish a more vibrant future for manufacturing and marine technology.”
Enterprise Minister Ivan McKee added: “Scotland has a rich shipbuilding heritage with the skills, technology and expertise to play a leading role in the decarbonisation of the marine sector going forward.
“Through investments in NMIS and the Inward Investment Catalyst Fund we are creating the conditions to support the transformation of Scottish manufacturing through de-risking innovation, attracting investment, creating jobs and supporting a cleaner, greener future.”
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