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Combining Internal Combustion and Electric Power in a Single Boat
What if the future of recreational boating didn't involve choosing between internal combustion and electric power, but rather making smart use of the strengths of each? That's the path Mercury Marine and BlueNav have taken with a hybrid solution designed to address the various needs that arise during a single trip out at sea.
To illustrate this partnership, the two companies are showcasing a Highfield Patrol 700 powered by a 250 ch Mercury SeaPro engine, paired with two 8 kW BlueNav electric motors.
This concept is particularly appealing to both recreational boaters and anglers. The Mercury outboard motor remains essential for trips requiring power, speed, range, and performance. The BlueNav electric propulsion system can take over when quiet operation and precision are priorities: maneuvering in the harbor, holding position, anchoring, fishing, navigating in protected areas, or traveling at low speeds.
Hybridization without replacing the main engine
One of the key advantages of BlueNav technology is that it can be installed on a boat that is already equipped with a Mercury engine. This allows the owner to enjoy the benefits of hybrid technology without having to replace the boat's main internal combustion engine.
Mercury also highlights the electrical capabilities of its outboard motors. According to the press release, their alternators can deliver up to 115 amps on the V8 models?a capacity suitable for powering and recharging the BlueNav hybrid system.
Features that are of direct interest to fishermen
Beyond propulsion, BlueNav is focusing on Smart Navigation. The system includes a patented Virtual Anchor, Smart Mooring, 360° Docking, and control via the BlueNav App. The goal is to make it easier to control the boat and to improve precision during maneuvers.
When it comes to fishing, the combination really comes into its own when you need to hold a position, make a stealthy approach, or move slowly through an area. The electric motor allows you to prioritize silence and precision, while the internal combustion engine is still available for quickly reaching more distant spots.
Test runs at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival
Mercury Marine and BlueNav will use the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival as an opportunity to showcase this technology in real-world conditions. Sea trials of the Highfield Patrol 700 will be available by reservation during the festival, allowing visitors to experience this hybrid propulsion system.
This collaboration thus reflects a pragmatic approach to the energy transition in the boating industry: maintaining the performance and range of internal combustion engines while using electric power where it offers the greatest benefits. Mercury Marine and BlueNav aim to enhance onboard comfort, optimize energy consumption, and facilitate the adoption of more sustainable propulsion solutions.
