🔋 From 1952 to the Future: A Heritage Hull Meets Clean Tech Performance
⚡ Snapshot
- Client: Petawatts / Private owner
- Location: Okanagan Valley, BC
- Boat Model: 1952 ACME Aqualiner, retrofitted
- Propulsion System: ACEL 75HP Intelligent Electric Series
- Battery: 43 kWh LiFePO₄ modular 3-pack
- Top Speed: 30 knots
- Range: Full-day use on a single charge (moderate cruising)
- Use Case: Demonstration, cruising, and zero-emission lake boating
🛠️ The Challenge
Retrofitting a 70+ year-old, mahogany classic boat is no small feat — especially when transitioning from a gas-powered system to an electric future. The 1952 ACME Aqualiner, originally handcrafted in Saskatoon, required structural reinforcement, sustainable electrification, and seamless integration of new technology—all while preserving the vessel’s timeless character.
The challenge?
- ⚠️ Eliminate emissions, fumes, and maintenance typical of ICE boats
- ⚠️ Retain original design aesthetics
- ⚠️ Deliver high performance, speed, and silent cruising
- ⚠️ Make the experience unforgettable for both the owner and passengers
⚙️ The ACEL Power Solution
The project began with a complete restoration of the hull, sourced from Kelowna in 2024. After reinforcing the transom and triple keel with marine-grade plywood and aluminum, Petawatts prepared the Aqualiner for a full electric propulsion conversion.
🔧 System Integration Highlights:
- ACEL 75iE Electric Outboard Motor
- 55 kW continuous / 85 kW peak (75HP–115HP equivalent)
- 400V high-efficiency platform
- Instant torque and whisper-quiet operation
- 43 kWh LiFePO₄ Modular Battery Pack
- 3000+ charging cycles
- Superior thermal stability for marine safety
- Packaged beneath original seating for aesthetic integrity
- Smart Onboard Systems
- Digital display for system monitoring
- Digital throttle with enhanced safety features
- NFC floating key system
- Smart charger and touchscreen dashboard
The result is a fully integrated electric solution delivering clean, powerful, and intelligent marine mobility—without sacrificing elegance or performance.
🌊 The Results
The transformation was stunning. On water, the Aqualiner instantly delivers:
✅ 30 knots of top-end speed
✅ Immediate planing and razor-sharp handling
✅ Zero fumes, zero noise, zero fuel spills
✅ A full day of cruising on a single charge
This electric retrofit not only preserves the heritage of classic boating—it redefines it for the clean-tech era.
📍 Public Debut:
The boat debuted at the Kelowna Yacht Club during an open demonstration day. Visitors were blown away by the acceleration, silence, and design. Extensive trials on Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake confirmed exceptional reliability and user satisfaction.
