Iongrid has been appointed the exclusive distributor in the Maldives for Chinese company ExploMar, which manufactures electric outboard engines.

ExploMar said in a statement that its electric outboard engines could help transform the Maldives’ maritime transport sector by reducing emissions and engine noise.

The company said electric outboards can provide passengers with a quieter and more comfortable journey while reducing emissions associated with conventional fuel powered engines.

ExploMar said its partnership with Iongrid will allow resorts and safari operators in the Maldives to offer tourists quieter and more environmentally friendly marine transport.

ExploMar board member and Sales Director Jonathan Wang said the company aims to provide vessel operators in the Maldives with reliable electric outboard technology as an alternative to conventional engines.

“We want to use quality electric outboard technology to provide operators in the country with an environmentally friendly way to operate vessels without the usual loud engine noise,” Wang said.

Iongrid said it believes electric outboard engines can play an important role in making the Maldives’ maritime transport sector more sustainable and that the partnership will introduce reliable and innovative electric outboard technology to the market.

The partnership will include showrooms displaying ExploMar’s engines and an event where marine operators can test the technology at sea.

“The future of maritime transport is electricity. With Iongrid, the company is bringing an innovative solution to electric maritime transportation,” ExploMar said.

ExploMar was established in 2021 by professionals with experience in the maritime and air and sea transportation industries. The company develops technology aimed at reducing reliance on carbon in the transport sector.

Its electric outboard range includes 70hp, 150hp and 300hp models. The company says the engines are designed to require less maintenance and include smart features.