Electric control in both directions
Conventional electric winches normally power the line in while easing remains a manual operation. Seldén's E40rev adds powered reverse operation, allowing a sailor to ease a sheet or other running-rigging line under controlled electric drive while it remains in the self-tailer.
That is particularly relevant to short-handed sailing because the operator can manage load from a push button rather than moving hands close to a heavily loaded drum. Seldén positions the design as both a convenience and a safety improvement.
Built on the S-series platform
The E40rev uses Seldén's established S-series architecture and patented ART drum. It retains a manual operating option for situations where electrical power is unavailable, avoiding complete dependence on the powered system.
Electrical supply comes through the company's 42V SEL-Bus platform, which is also used across Seldén's powered sail-handling equipment. The winch is two-speed, giving the system flexibility between rapid line movement and higher-load trimming.
A 2026 launch aimed at short-handed yachts
Seldén scheduled the E40rev's world premiere for boot Düsseldorf in January 2026 and showed it aboard the Saffier SE 28 Leopard as well as on its own stand. The company said market availability would follow in spring 2026, with larger reversing models planned later in the year.
Although the demonstration boat is compact, the operating principle is highly relevant to larger cruising yachts where sail loads rise and crews are often small. Powered easing can reduce the physical effort involved in managing those loads from the cockpit.
Part of a wider automation trend
Modern cruising rigs increasingly combine electric furling, powered winches and networked control rather than treating each item as a separate manual mechanism. The E40rev extends that approach to one of the most frequently used pieces of deck hardware.
Owners considering an installation still need to assess electrical capacity, cabling, deck structure and line layout as a complete system. The value of the reversing function is greatest when it is integrated into a cockpit arrangement designed for safe single- or short-handed operation.
