TL;DR: The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air is an 8.67m electric daycruiser with a 400 kW peak motor from the Porsche Macan EV's PPE platform, hitting 85 km/h top speed and offering a 100 kWh battery with 800V fast charging (10-80% in under 30 min). It carries 9 passengers for silent, emission-free coastal cruising at CE Category C, with 45 km range at 41 km/h cruise. First 25 units launch in 2024 from Austrian builder Frauscher and Porsche Engineering.

What is the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air?
The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air integrates a 400 kW electric powertrain fromPorsche Macan EVan EV’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), achieving a top speed of 85 km/h (46 knots) on water. This collaboration adapts automotive EV technology for marine use, delivering silent, high-performance day cruising for up to 9 passengers. Key highlights include fast 800V charging and Porsche-derived handling for luxury electric boating.

Background on Frauscher and Porsche Collaboration
Austrian boat builder Frauscher Bootswerft, founded in 1927, specializes in high-end daycruisers with over 3,000 vessels produced. Recent focus: electric propulsion for quiet, emission-free boating. Porsche Engineering partnered to adapt PPE technology from the electric Macan SUV for water. Announced in 2024, the 850 Fantom Air is the first production model (initial 25 units), based on the combustion Frauscher 858 Fantom Air hull (8.67m length, 2.49m width) with EV drivetrain adaptations. Addresses marine challenges like saltwater corrosion and wave impacts. CE Category C certified for coastal waters.
Key Specifications
- Length: 8.67 m
- Width: 2.49 m
- Draft (high/low trim): 0.5 m / 0.9 m
- Dry Weight: 2,800 kg
- Passenger Capacity: 9 (CE C9)
- CE Category: C (coastal/inshore)
- Electric Motor: 170 kW continuous / 400 kW peak (536 hp)
- Battery: 100 kWh lithium-ion (gross)
- Top Speed (Sport Plus): 85 km/h (46 kn)
- Cruising Speed: 41 km/h (22 kn)
- Range at Cruise: 45 km (1 hour)
- Range (mixed driving): 2-3 hours
- DC Charging: >250 kW (10-80% in under 30 min)
- AC Charging: 11 kW
- Drive Modes: Docking, Range, Sport, Sport Plus
Note: Performance based on tests with two passengers; full data pending.

Powertrain and Performance Details
Core: Porsche PPE components—permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) at 400 kW peak, 100 kWh battery, 800V architecture. Drives Z-drive via shaft (RPM capped at 6,000 for marine props). Low-mounted batteries lower the center of gravity for wave handling. Sport Plus unlocks 85 km/h for 30 seconds; Docking limits to 15 km/h. Real-world: 45 km at cruise suits day trips; >250 kW DC charges 10-80% in under 30 min.

Design and Onboard Features
Styled by Studio F.A. Porsche: Porsche steering wheel (saltwater-resistant), 5 analog gauges, 12-inch display (audio, echo sounder, chart plotter). Standard: bow thruster, electric stainless anchor, LED lighting, premium Bluetooth/WiFi audio, cooling compartment, two folding bimini tops. Layout: rear swim platform, lounge sun pads, central aisle to freestanding helm, forward benches in configurable artificial leather. Adaptations: steel cable damping for battery isolation, ‘rest-bus simulation’ for charging.
How Does It Compare to Electric Boat Competitors?
| Model | Power (kW) | Top Speed (km/h) | Battery (kWh) | Price Estimate | Key Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air | 400 peak | 85 | 100 | ~$600,000 | Porsche EV tech, 800V charge, speed |
| Candela C-8 | 450 peak | 54 | 69 | $300,000+ | Hydrofoil efficiency |
| Phantom 65M EV Concept | Unknown | 50+ | ~100 | >$1M | Luxury yacht scale |
| X Shore Eelex 8000 | 150 | 40 | 70 | $250,000 | Affordable entry |
Fantom Air outperforms most in power/speed vs. efficiency-focused hydrofoils like Candela; premium pricing.
Key Takeaways
- Milestone EV boat: First production use of Porsche Macan EV PPE tech on water (400 kW, 85 km/h).
- Day cruising optimized: 9 passengers, 45 km range, ultra-fast 800V charging for lakes/coasts.
- Luxury features: Porsche styling, advanced display, silent operation—no emissions/engine noise.
- Limitations: Day-trip range only; high cost (~$600k); saltwater battery durability TBD; US availability unconfirmed.
- Ideal for affluent EV enthusiasts seeking thrilling, eco-luxury boating.
