RAD Propulsion unveils efficient electric outboard as Mercury Spitfire propeller gains top boater endorsement

RAD Propulsion, based near Southampton, England, is developing a 40‑kW electric outboard that uses a larger, high‑efficiency propeller and internal cooling to improve thrust and speed compared with conventional gasoline‑driven models. Co‑founders Rich Daltry and Dan Hook say the design departs from simply mounting an electric motor on a standard outboard, opting instead for a propeller‑first approach that takes advantage of electric torque to boost efficiency.

In the United States, Prop Depot announced that the Mercury Spitfire 4‑blade aluminum propeller, produced by Mercury Marine, has become its most requested performance upgrade for recreational vessels. The propeller’s larger blade area and aggressive geometry deliver faster acceleration, better handling and maintained top‑end speed for boats ranging from pontoons to fishing craft. The company notes measurable gains in planning times and mid‑range pull, making the Spitfire a popular choice among boat owners seeking cost‑effective performance improvements.