A new Gemini WR650 Hybrid Patrol RIB built by Novi Marine for Antwerp city harbour combines two Torqeedo Cruise 6.0 48V electric motors with a Yamaha F150 outboard. The mixed-propulsion layout is designed to let harbour staff run quietly and locally emissions-free for routine work while retaining conventional power for faster or longer assignments.
Hybrid propulsion matches mixed duty cycles
Patrol boats rarely operate at one speed or one load, which makes them a useful test case for hybrid propulsion. Torqeedo says the Antwerp boat can operate for at least four hours at 8km/h on electric power alone, while the Yamaha petrol outboard remains available when greater speed or endurance is required.
Twin Cruise motors handle low-speed work
The two Cruise 6.0 units provide the electric side of the installation and use Torqeedo’s 48V architecture. For harbour patrol work, low-speed manoeuvring, repeated starts and stops, and long periods close to people are exactly where quiet electric propulsion can deliver practical benefits beyond headline emissions figures.
Novi Marine integrates the complete package
Dutch specialist Novi Marine built the Gemini WR650 Hybrid Patrol RIB around the mixed drive system. The project shows how electric outboards can be added as part of a complete workboat concept rather than treated as a direct one-for-one replacement for a single combustion engine.
Lessons transfer to tenders and support boats
Although this is a municipal patrol craft, the operating profile is relevant to yacht tenders, marina boats and support craft that spend much of their time at low speed. Owners considering hybrid auxiliary craft can study projects like this for real-world clues about battery sizing, control integration and when a second propulsion source still adds useful resilience.
