We review the Highfield Ejet 330 with Zerojet propulsion!
Electric boats have arrived and whilst the concept of water and electric feels weird to comprehend, the marine industry has most definitely embraced them, as their popularity increases worldwide!
As authorised Highfield dealers we decided to review their latest innovation to the market The EJet330.
We have always had faith in the Highfield brand after rigging and selling many Highfield boats, we have built a trust in their performance and reliability, so much so, that we have continued to sell Highfield Boats for over 10 years!
When we were told about the new electric version, we did wonder if it would live upto the expectations we have of the brand and deliver a performance that mirrors its petrol powered siblings! We studied the capabilities of other brands on the market and found it difficult to find something that gave us what we wanted, such as the same power, the same delivery, whilst helping save the environment and for a reasonable cost, but we just couldn't find anything we could offer our clients that we felt confident in.
Here we give our honest review and opinion on the new Highfield EJet330 powered by Zerojet.
Our First Impressions
When we first set our sceptical eyes upon this rib we have to admit we were quietly impressed. The initial look is classy, spacious for it's class and solid. The 43cm diameter tubes, feel robust and are ideal for challenging adventures, the diamanté seating is a nice touch, achieving an elegance which is in keeping with the brands more luxury range. The light grey EVA deck on the model we have, is a modern take on the traditional deck flooring, giving a stylish appearance to the boat and is complimented by a darker grey FCT console, which tones in with the overall appearance, the FCT being an offset steering wheel allows for more internal space, resulting in plenty of room for a few legs and feet to sprawl out and an area left over for a picnic 'alfresco' style!
Whether you are getting on board or descending into the water, the lack of a cumbersome outboard allows a stable area for free movement.
Storage is more than adequate, with a locker situated under the bow seat and a further larger storage area hides underneath the rear bench seat.
So how does this boat work?
The EJet 330 is powered by a 10.8kWh lithium battery which is cleverly housed within the mid section of the deck, incorporating a large hatch access to the fully waterproof battery housing.
Underneath the rear bench seat a further smaller concealed hatch can be found which on opening reveals the electric Jet unit, of which offers an impressive 22kw of power equivalent to 29.5hp, not so bad for a 3.3m rib weighing 334kg (Boat only).
So, is it as good as they say it is....
We put it to the test....
We decided to take it on a test drive and pre charged the boat prior to leaving using a standard charger which took about 4 /5 hours ( fast chargers take about 1-2.5hrs ) . It was a calm and sunny day and we headed out from Lyme Regis Harbour into Lyme Bay. It was so easy, we had no fuel tanks to fill up or additional ones to carry and we simply got on board, ensured the kill cord was on and pressed the start.
We were impressed by its initial responsiveness and as we progressed further around Lyme Bay we realised just how well it manoeuvred, we turned and navigated the water with ease, spinning in circles effortlessly! At full throttle it really became a little rocket propelling us through the water without difficulty.
The ride felt safe and smooth, comfortable and reassuring, we were impressed with its output! Plus, Its silent workings meant the only noise to be head was crshing of the waves and our own voices! Whilst on the water we did think how well suited it would be as tender or used on the river ways due to its quiet propulsion ( fab for not disturbing the fishermen ) Overall we really enjoyed the test drive.
Pros and Cons
We are aware that people worry about having the power and capability in comparison to its fuel powered counterparts, however, there is a market for this rib and whilst its not likely to be crossing any channels any time soon or competing with alternative outboards of which you can take reserve tanks for a lengthier trip out. The Ejet330 is a fantastic boat for its class.
It's benefits are simple, you are not carrying petrol on board, there is virtually no maintenance of the engine, no servicing costs, which help justify the initial price. With no propeller in your way, It's completely safe to swim around. Is there a downside?
For those looking at having full day trips out on the water, this would not be the option for you, unless your journey involves charging points, as there no is back up if your battery runs to empty.
The Final Verdict -
Of course there are other electric alternatives on the market. You can purchase electric outboards to sit on a new or existing boat, but the beauty of the EJet 330 is simply there is no set up. Lets face it if you are UK based and get a glimmer of nice weather, you want to launch your boat quickly to make the most whilst you can. Just remember to have it charged ready.
The Highfield EJet 330 by ZeroJet, is in our opinion, a genuinely great option for those looking to purchase a tender for Yacht to shore trips, or for short distance adventures. It works very well for canals and riverways and its zero emissions silent engine, means you are doing your bit for the environment too!
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