A speed record forged in green
It might be painted in Porsche’s metallic Oakgreen, but the 850 Fantom record-breaker is all electric. The Frauscher × Porsche 850 Fantom has become the fastest electric boat to race under regulated competition, clocking a peak average of 49.84 knots across two one-kilometre runs at the 2025 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. The previous record: just over 47 knots but didn’t stand a chance.
Engineering the future of boating: Monaco Energy Boat Challenge 2025
Developed by Austrian boatbuilder Frauscher in partnership with Porsche’s E-Performance division, the 850 Fantom uses the electric powertrain from the upcoming Macan Turbo, a gutsy crossover EV that itself pushes over 400 kW and 1,000 Nm in overboost.
This is no prototype. The boat used in the Monaco event was a fully specced production unit, with upholstery, infotainment, navigation, and seating for seven. The only thing trimmed was the lap time.
Under the deck: Porsche tech, Frauscher flair
While it might look like a premium day cruiser on the surface, and it is, beneath the teak sits the 800-volt architecture, permanent magnet synchronous motor, and power electronics direct from Porsche’s automotive line.
The battery is a 100 kWh unit, integrated amidships for balance. Driving modes include Docking, Range, Sport, and Sport Plus, with the record run achieved in the latter.
“This project is the perfect showcase for Porsche E-Performance on the water,” said Jörg Kerner, head of Macan product line.
“It’s not just fast—it’s refined, efficient, and customer-ready.”
Record set during Speed Challenge
The record was set during the Speed Challenge, one of three core events at the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, which includes Efficiency and Endurance categories. The event, hosted by the Prince Albert II Foundation, is a global showcase for next-gen sustainable marine propulsion.
With global marine emissions under scrutiny, the 850 Fantom represents a bold step: a luxury vessel that isn’t just green in paint, but in philosophy.
“We wanted to prove that you don’t need to compromise—performance and sustainability can go hand in hand,” said Stefan Frauscher.
“This record is shared by the entire 53-person team who made it possible.”
Limited production, high demand
The 850 Fantom isn’t just a concept, it’s actually in production. Just 25 First Edition boats will be made available, and each is built to order. Buyers can expect exactly what they saw in Monaco: the same top speed, same deck layout, and full charging support, including:
- DC fast charging up to 270 kW (80% in under 30 mins)
- AC charging up to 11 kW
- 45 km range at 22 knots (41 km/h cruising)
- 100 km+ range at low-speed displacement
At 8.67 metres long and 2.49 metres wide, it’s still trailerable, just don’t expect it to come cheap.
A glimpse into the future
For the New Zealand boating community, the Frauscher × Porsche partnership might feel a world away from our classic alloy runabouts and blue cod fishers. But the reality is that high-performance, high-tech electric boating is here, and it’s evolving fast. Porsche may have entered the marine market quietly but with the 850 Fantom they’ve just left an almighty wake.
