Uses very little energy overall (self-charging when under sail).
How much motoring time does a Thoosa System provide?
Motoring time is dependent on the speed that you are cruising at, the size (capacity) of the battery bank and the boat length and displacement. Please submit your boat data and we can tell you exactly how much time you have available for motoring depending on speed with different size battery banks. .
What size boats are ideal for Thoosa installations?
The Thoosa systems can be configured to boats 20 – 60 feet, depending on requirements. Beyond that, please submit a request for an estimate on a custom system.
How can I have a Thoosa system configured for my boat?
Please submit an email with the following information (as best you can) for a personal assessment of which system would be correct for your needs! We need the following information: Boat type, Brand, LOA, LWL, Beam, Displacement, Propeller (optional)-# of blades, Engine- brand, HP, RPM, and any additional Information that you think might help select the correct size drive for your boat. Things like usage will help in the selection of battery size.
All that is required is that the belt and the motor brushes get checked once in a while (once a year). The belt can last for several years, but it is recommended to change belt every three years.
The belt and toothed pulley system, well maintained, will actually last a long time. It is much more efficient than mechanical gears (gear boxes) so very little power is lost in the belt system. The belt is very robust resistant to oil (not that there is any present), water and other chemicals and its strength allows the transmission of over 100 Hp (see attachment, our belts are “8M”).
We only allow 20 Hp transmitted per belt (the 40Hp unit contains 2 belt and pulley systems). I usually use a comparison to a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, which has an engine with over 100 Hp and a belt drive with a belt thinner and narrower than the belts we are using in the marine electric propulsion systems.
How many batteries are needed?
The Thoosa Electric Propulsion Systems range from 48V to 96V DC. This means that you will only need 4 – 8 12V batteries in series. For larger vessels, we could go as high as 144VDC (12 Batteries) with a dual motor (2 motors on same shaft) system, please contact us for further information.
Don't the batteries add too much weight to the boat?
One comment you hear a lot when electric propulsion is discussed: “You need a ton of batteries for this, they are liable to sink your boat”. Well, another of many misconceptions. Here is a comparison from our demonstration boat (34’ Hunter):
DIESEL ELECTRIC
Engine + Fluids 302 lbs Thoosa System 66 lbs
Fuel Tank (25Gal) 176 lbs Batteries 508 lbs
2 Batteries 122 lbs
TOTAL 600 lbs 574 lbs
As it comes out, a slight advantage electric.
How long will the batteries last?
Batteries last the longest when they are maintained well. It is not uncommon to have batteries last 7 – 10 years.
What type of batteries do you use?
The only type to use is a sealed lead acid battery, such as a GEL or AGM. They are designed to handle deep cycling, which is the only type battery type to use for electric propulsion. These batteries are more expensive than flooded cell batteries and they require special chargers to last for the maximum number of cycles, but they will last for almost 10 years if the recommendations are followed. And they are sealed, so there is no out-gassing and acid spillage as is the case with cheap batteries.
How long does it take to recharge the batteries?
The batteries can be recharged several ways: a shore charger, genset and/or regeneration from prop while under sail.
A shore charger is optional. The charger can restore the battery packs to full charge in between 3 and 15 hours, depending on the capacity of the charger.
The system will charge the batteries if a high percentage of sailing time is spent under sail and very little time motoring. The charger is for "topping off" the batteries from shore power.
Can solar panels and wind generators be used to charge the batteries?
There are quite a few solutions available for charging the batteries wind alternative methods such as, Solar panels and Wind generators.
Solar panels can interface to the Thoosa system through a converter that transforms PV voltage to 48VDC. Depending on number of solar panels, they can be split up charge individual batteries at 12V or 2 batteries in series at 24V.
What size Thoosa system do I need?
There are several Thoosa Electric Propulsion Systems available for all types of sailboats. Please send your boat specs and any pertinent info to Hank at
skipper-hank@ngcmarine.com
Where can I buy a Thoosa System?
Thoosa systems may be purchased through our online store:Access Hereby telephone: 262-509-5007, or downloading and mailing ourOrder Form to the address indicated on the form. We are working on signing up a number of strategically placed dealers.
What maintenance is needed for winterizing?
Detach battery cables and cushion controller
Can the Thoosa Motors be installed in new boats as they are being built?
Absolutely. We would be more than happy to work with you on a new boat.
What other components might I need?
You will need to select a throttle when purchasing a Thoosa system.
Optional (but recommended) accessories:
Link – 10 or Link XBM Battery Monitor
Zivan Battery Charger/Converter
Is the system safe?
There are no flammable liquids used in these systems and all materials used are non-flammable.
Do I need a genset?
The propulsion system with a converter/charger to interface to a generator is a great combination for long sailing trips. A larger charger / generator would also make it possible to operate the propulsion system while charging it at the same time. Please consult NGC Marine for the best possible solution for you, we have many different options all individually configured based on your needs and wishes.
How can I use the battery power for other appliances in the boat?
It is possible through a DC-DC converter to run house power of these batteries as well. It depends, of course, on the load on the house system. For AC loads, the installation of a DC-AC inverter is necessary.
Can I use my existing propeller and shaft?
Yes! With these systems the gearing can be changed to match your existing prop. We do emphasize, however, that the larger the propeller diameter the better the overall system efficiency.
What are the warranties?
The Thoosa Electric Propulsion Systems have a 1 year parts & labor warranty.
