Porsche, a brand synonymous with high-performance automobiles, is charting new waters in electric mobility. With Austria’s prestigious Frauscher Shipyard, Porsche has introduced the 850 Fantom, a luxurious all-electric sports boat featuring high-performance technology derived from the Porsche Macan Turbo. Following the success of their open-deck day cruiser, the 850 Fantom Air, this new iteration—dubbed a "runabout"—offers a closed foredeck and cabin for a more classic and versatile maritime experience.
This innovation, set to debut at boot Düsseldorf 2025, the world’s largest indoor water sports fair, promises to redefine standards in electric boating.
A Fusion of Iconic Design and Advanced Technology
The 850 Fantom reflects Porsche's E-Performance ethos, embodying cutting-edge engineering and timeless aesthetics. Designed in collaboration with Studio F. A. Porsche and Style Porsche, this 8.67-meter-long vessel seamlessly integrates automotive sophistication with maritime functionality.
The core of the 850 Fantom’s power lies in its drive unit, borrowed directly from the all-electric Porsche Macan Turbo. Equipped with a permanently excited synchronous motor, the boat delivers an impressive 400 kW (approximately 536 horsepower) and achieves a top speed of 90 km/h (49 knots) in Sport Plus mode. A high-voltage battery with a capacity of 100 kWh powers the vessel, offering a cruising range of approximately 45 kilometers at 41 km/h (22 knots) and up to 100 kilometers at slower speeds.
Key Performance Features:
- Four Driving Modes: Docking, Range, Sport, and Sport Plus.
- Charging Capabilities: DC charging up to 270 kW and AC charging up to 11 kW.
- Efficiency Enhancements: State-of-the-art power electronics and silicon carbide technology for optimized switching frequencies.
Luxury Meets Customization
The 850 Fantom exemplifies the Porsche ethos of luxury and personalization. Designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, the boat features a spacious rear lounge with plush sunbathing pads and a swim platform. Inside the cabin, travelers will find ample seating and lounging areas upholstered to individual taste.
In its debut model, the 850 Fantom features a striking Oakgreen Metallic Neo exterior paired with Truffle Brown upholstery, accented by orange stitching. Customization extends to the hull, deck, and interior finishes, allowing owners to tailor their vessel to their preferences—similar to configuring a Porsche sports car.
The cockpit continues the Porsche design language with a driver-centric layout, a sports car-inspired steering wheel, and Porsche Crest-embossed headrests. Technological sophistication complements the luxurious interior with a 12-inch infotainment display integrating navigation, an echo sounder, and chart plotting capabilities. A secondary display for the co-driver ensures a seamless experience for all passengers.
A Technological Masterpiece
The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom doesn’t compromise on innovation. Some standout features include:
- Retractable Sunshade: Offers convenience and comfort for extended cruising.
- High-End Audio System: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled, delivering premium sound quality for onboard entertainment.
- LED Lighting: Ambient lighting throughout the boat and underwater LEDs at the rear enhance the vessel’s aesthetic and functionality.
With its high-voltage battery system developed by Porsche, the 850 Fantom is engineered to withstand the demands of high-speed maritime travel. A wire-rope mount suspension protects the battery from shocks, even in choppy waters.
Exclusive Production and Pricing
The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom is part of a limited First Edition run, with only 25 units available. Each boat is meticulously assembled at the Frauscher Shipyard in Ohlsdorf, Austria. Porsche supplies the battery and drive system as pre-assembled modules, while Frauscher oversees the final assembly, sales logistics, and after-sales management.
Starting at €572,934 (net), the 850 Fantom caters to discerning buyers seeking exclusivity, innovation, and luxury.
Recognition and Anticipation
The 850 Fantom Air, the open-deck variant of this electric boat, recently received the prestigious Best of Boats Award in November 2024, highlighting the series' innovation and performance. With the 850 Fantom now offering a closed-deck alternative, enthusiasts can choose between two distinct styles that cater to diverse lifestyles—whether for tranquil getaways or exhilarating excursions.
Sustainability on Water
Porsche’s venture into the marine sector underscores its broader commitment to sustainable mobility. The brand drives innovation beyond the automotive sphere by leveraging its expertise in electric powertrains, pushing boundaries in maritime electrification.
Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of Porsche AG, emphasized this mission:
"Like our sports cars, the eFantom offers an exclusive experience and extraordinary performance. As an elegant day cruiser with an innovative, powerful drive system, she sets new standards in the maritime world."
The Future of Electric Boating
The launch of the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom represents more than just a collaboration—it marks a milestone in the evolution of electric boating. With its blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability, the 850 Fantom will captivate enthusiasts when it premieres in January 2025.
For those who demand excellence both on land and at sea, this electric masterpiece promises a one-of-a-kind experience, steering the luxury boating industry toward an electrifying future.
