Electric Propulsion Systems

RAD Propulsion Unveils High-Power RAD 120 Electric Drive

PRESS RELEASE

At METStrade 2025, RAD Propulsion introduced the RAD 120, a 120 kW electric drive engineered to meet rising demand for higher-power marine propulsion. Building on the proven performance of the RAD 40, this new system extends the company’s capability into applications requiring greater thrust, speed, and operational flexibility for commercial, defense, and leisure vessels—all while delivering clean, zero-emission power.

RAD 120 Port

Compact Power, Advanced Engineering

The RAD 120 delivers 120 kW of continuous power within RAD’s signature compact form factor. Operating on 350–450V, it maintains compatibility with existing RAD voltage architecture and offers motor speeds up to 5000 RPM, with propeller speeds around 3000 RPM.

Key Features:

  • High-Thrust Capability - The drive supports large blade-area propellers up to 17" diameter, enabling powerful performance across a wide range of vessel types.
  • Flexible Installation - Available in long and extra-long shaft configurations, the unit weighs 175 kg and is engineered to suit diverse hull designs.
  • Integrated Steering - A built-in 180° steering range (90° port and starboard) removes the need for external steering equipment.
  • Modular Battery Integration - The RAD 120 works with any suitable battery configuration, with a minimum recommended 61 kWh capacity and a preferred starting point of 122 kWh. Multiple batteries can be linked for up to 244 kWh total capacity. RAD can also provide generator and range-extender interfaces for hybrid applications.
  • Plug-and-Play Installation - The complete drive system arrives ready to install, upholding RAD’s focus on simplified integration for boat builders and refit teams.
  • Versatile Propeller Options - Designed for custom propeller configurations, RAD plans to offer 5–10 standard bronze or stainless options in 3-, 4-, and 5-blade variations, available in both left- and right-handed versions.
  • Autonomy Ready - Built on the same RADBus fly-by-wire control architecture as the RAD 40, the drive supports autonomy interfaces, documentation, and integration assistance.

Industry-Driven Development

"The launch of the RAD 120 marks a new era for RAD Propulsion," said Dan Hook, CEO of RAD Propulsion. "We've listened carefully to feedback from the marine industry and identified a clear need for scalable electric propulsion that doesn't compromise on performance. The RAD 120 delivers the power, thrust and operational flexibility that commercial operators and boat builders have been asking for, while maintaining the installation simplicity and reliability that define our RAD 40 system. This is electric propulsion that's ready for the real-world demands of today's marine sector."

Hook continues: “The system’s modular battery architecture allows range, performance, and weight distribution to be tailored to each vessel type—providing a practical, future-ready solution for both refit and new-build projects.”

Built for Real-World Conditions

Designed for reliability across demanding environments, the RAD 120 operates in air temperatures from -20°C to +80°C and seawater temperatures from 0°C to +35°C.

Vessel trials are scheduled for Q1 2026 at RAD Propulsion’s UK facilities.

To find out more or join the list for a test drive, visit https://radpropulsion.com/ or email [email protected]