Advantages of a hybrid drive
- silent cruising – you can hear nature, & carry on a conversation
- no diesel fumes in locks & tunnels. Diesel particulates are carcinogenic so best avoided
- better manoeuvring – the electric motor can turn much slower than the diesel allowing fine control of speed
- no need to run the diesel while moored, or use a generator – the battery pack can last for days
- no need for gas so the bow locker can be repurposed
- less hours put on the diesel, especially at idle, so less frequent maintenance
- two modes of propulsion – if one develops a fault you can continue on the other
- 230v appliances can be used meaning a much wider choice
- running out of diesel isn’t a complete disaster – you can get to a bowser on electric
- potentially free running – if you collect enough solar energy you can cruise for free
List compiled by Jonathan – owner of diesel-electric hybrid Watt Knot