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An electric boat rental service that you unlock and start via an app on your smartphone. The idea is Italian and was born out of the synergy between E-ssence-a start-up founded in 2023-and the Rome-based Navia shipyard. New green boats with integrated solar panels of different powers will be produced that can be driven both without and with a boat license.
Navia Shipyard will provide its own boats, featuring cutting-edge green technologies, while E-ssence will implement its app-based boat-sharing system across the fleet. This project marks a decisive step forward in the evolution of electric boating in Italy, which as far as the rental market is concerned is growing, with estimates indicating a 5 percent increase worldwide by 2027. In Italy, although the sector is currently worth “only” 60 million euros, it is expected to grow strongly in 2024.
E-ssence ‘s business model is unique in Italy, and is inspired by existing bicycle and scooter sharing systems in large European cities. With a simple, automated application, customers can book, unlock, and use boats without the need for a boat license, and without having to go through paperwork. The service also includes route suggestions and points of interest, with the help of a“virtual skipper,” as well as integration with other electric transportation.
There are three electric boats currently available for customers. One is moored in Mirabello harbor in La Spezia in B2C mode, and the second is being managed by an operator on Lake Garda in B2B mode, as is the third, on Lake Bracciano. These locations, confirmed for the 2024 season, will be joined by other destinations from central to northern Italy via the islands.
Navia stands out for itsfocus on sustainability and innovation. With an experienced marine and energy team, the company combines Italian design with state-of-the-art technology, offering electric boats perfect for sailing in marine protected areas.
Leonardo Caiazza, class of 1990, founder of E-ssence, emphasizes Navia’s high-quality approach to its boats and the importance of the partnership in providing a state-of-the-art product. Guglielmo La Via, born in 1989 and founder of Navia, expresses confidence in E-ssence’s scalable business model and the opportunity to expand the visibility of its products through this collaboration.
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1 thought on “Birth of electric boat rentals that you unlock with app”
Great article, but nothing new. The Netherlands have done this for years