Is it accurate to label battery-powered boats as sailing boats? - Matt Sheahan (paraphrased)
In the world of high-profile sailing races, such as SailGP and those involving AC75 boats, the use of electrical boosts for propulsion remains a topic of little explicit detail. Despite the advancements in technology and the focus on sustainability, the prevailing approach in these events remains centered on wind power.
SailGP, renowned for its cutting-edge technology and commitment to sustainability, employs electrical power systems for onboard systems. However, the use of electrical boosts for motor assistance during races is not specifically mentioned in the latest public sources. The organisation focuses on advanced sail and foil technology rather than motorized propulsion during races.
The AC75 class yachts used in the America's Cup are primarily wind-powered high-tech sailing vessels with strict class rules that restrict the use of any form of motor propulsion that directly affects boat speed during races. Electrical systems are generally used for control and data systems but not for propulsion boosts, to maintain the integrity of sailing competition.
As of July 2025, there are no clear or updated publicly available rules or controversies indicating that the use of electrical boosts for propulsion is currently allowed or encouraged in these top-tier sailing races.
Meanwhile, the all-electric Magic Carpet-e, a Maxi boat, is set to make waves with its advanced all-electric power system for everything on board. The crew of the Magic Carpet-e uses electric road bikes with electric gears, finding them efficient and weight-saving.
The debate over the use of electrical assistance in sailing races continues, with some arguing that any assistance from power is wrong. In the past, the use of engine power during races has been considered unethical by some in the sailing community.
SailGP is experimenting with an electric propulsion system for its F50 catamarans, aiming to keep racing close and fair when the breeze is fickle and patchy. The electric propulsion system is designed to provide a performance boost for teams in light winds. However, the issue of how much power can be used aboard a boat before it strays beyond the definition of sailing is a topic of discussion in the sailing world.
For precise up-to-date rules on electrical power use, consulting the official event rulebooks or technical regulations from SailGP and America’s Cup authorities would be necessary. For those with a passion for sailing, a subscription to the world's leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors offers inspirational adventures and practical features, helping to build knowledge for sailing dreams and offering significant discounts.
The SailGP organization is trying out an electric propulsion system for its F50 catamarans, aiming to keep the racing fair in light winds, but concerns about how much power can be used before it exceeds the boundary of sailing persist. On the other hand, the all-electric Magic Carpet-e, a Maxi boat, uses electrical power for all onboard systems, including its crew's electric road bikes, demonstrating a commitment to technology and sustainability that differs from the competitive sailing realm, where discussions about electrical boosts for propulsion in races remain ongoing.
){kind=link}