Oceanvolt ServoProp 15 variable-pitch electric saildrive

Overview

Oceanvolt's ServoProp 15 is a variable-pitch electric saildrive with 12 kW continuous output, 15 kW peak and strong hydrogeneration.

Year

2025

Boat Type

Other

Propulsion

Electric Inboard

Location

Finland

About the ServoProp 15

The ServoProp 15 combines Oceanvolt's electric saildrive with a software-controlled variable-pitch propeller. The blades rotate through a wide pitch range so the system can optimize forward thrust, reverse thrust, regeneration and low-drag sailing rather than compromising around one fixed blade angle. Oceanvolt lists 12 kW continuous and 15 kW peak output, a 1,140 rpm propeller-shaft speed and a 65 kg weight including the drive and propeller. The current product page recommends it for sailboats up to about 15 metres and 12,000 kg. Oceanvolt reports 30 percent more forward thrust and twice the reverse thrust of its SD drive with folding propellers, which is particularly relevant during docking. The complete system includes a separately sized 48 V battery bank, controls, display and charging sources; battery capacity is not inherent to the drive.

Best For

Cruising sailboats up to about 15 metres
Owners prioritizing hydrogeneration on passage
Boats that benefit from stronger reverse thrust while docking

Performance in Context

Oceanvolt publishes more than 1 kW of regeneration at seven to eight knots and about 3 kW at eleven to twelve knots for the ServoProp. Actual recovery depends on sailing speed, sea state, battery acceptance and installation. The drive automatically adjusts pitch and can reduce drag when regeneration is not wanted. Motoring range still depends on battery capacity and hull resistance, so regenerated energy should be modeled against the boat's expected sailing profile rather than described as unlimited range.

Battery and Charging

The ServoProp 15 is part of a 48 V system whose battery capacity is selected for the vessel. It can combine shore charging, solar, a generator and hydrogeneration. Oceanvolt's controls stop regeneration when the battery is full or boat speed is too low for efficient recovery. Charger power, usable battery energy and expected time under sail determine how self-sufficient a particular installation can be.

Availability and Pricing

Oceanvolt configures the ServoProp 15 through its sales and installer network. The price depends on battery storage, charger and inverter, controls, display, solar or generator integration and installation work. Buyers should request a complete energy budget and installation scope, especially when comparing it with a simpler fixed-pitch saildrive.