At CES 2024, the French company Kahe, from Lacanau, presented its new new type of outboard electric motor. This one is ultra-light, which allows it to be used both to propel a small boat, but also to swim with it. It then transforms into an underwater scooter.
CES 2024 is full of innovations in new technologies, but also in mobility. Do you like the ocean and silence, but you don't like pollution? The new 100% electric Kahe Pod 600 motor is made for you. This is a 3-in-1 outboard motor, presented by the French company Kahe.
Up to 9 km/h in total silence
The first function of this engine, in the shape of a pod, is to be able to propel a small boat (annex type) with a maximum total weight of 600 kg. We do not yet know the power of the engine, but we know that it can propel the boat up to 5 knots (around 9 km/h).
Autonomy is announced at 6 hours with a battery (integrated) with a capacity of 420 Wh. These are LG 21700 cells that are found in certain electric cars, notably from Tesla. The recharge speed is not huge, since it takes 5 hours to stock up on electrons.
Made in France
Cock-a-doodle Doo, ” The Kahe POD was imagined and designed in France by our design and engineering team. It is assembled in our premises in Lacanau (Gironde, France) or in our partner factory Swisstools in Marnaz (Haute Savoie, France) » tells us the brand.
In addition to being able to propel an annex thanks to its tiller, the Pod 600 can be transformed into an underwater scooter. In fact, you just need to mount the snorkeling (diving) handle and the rear protective grille (so as not to cut a limb). Which then allows you to be dragged by the pod in diving mode. Like in the movies !
The third use of this French electric motor is to tire out a little less when kayaking or SUP (stand-up-paddle). The motor takes the place of a fin and provides additional propulsion to that of the arms.
The Kahe Pod 600 is already available for pre-order, at the preferential price of 895 euros compared to 1,295 euros once pre-orders are completed. The first deliveries are expected for spring 2024.