Think you can’t have a nice boat on your lake because rules against gas engines? Think again! Imagine a strolling slowly across your lake in a luxurious Bennington pontoon, powered by a silent, eco-friendly, 2 horse-power Minn Kota E-Drive electric motor. Okay… Stop imaging and come over to talk to us about making it happen.

The E-Drive motor is designed specifically for electric-only lakes and waterways. The 48-volt outboard motor mounts to the transom just like a regular gas motor, and even connects to the standard rigging. Pilot your boat from the comfort of your captain’s chair`using the ultra-responsive electronic throttle controls. Minn Kota’s Digital Maximizer technology and real-time battery gauge let you spend hours on the lake with a single charge, and the security of knowing you have enough power to make it back home.

After more than 70 years in the Marine industry, Don’s Marine is no stranger to innovation. We started with the simple carbeurated 2-stroke engines of no more than 20 horse-power, and now work on state-of-the-art electronic multi-port fuel-injected engine exceeding 200 horse-power. The next step is electric, and we’re already doing that.

This summer, Don’s Marine powered and rigged a brand news Bennington 165 EI pontoon with all-electric power.  4 standard marine batteries power the E-Drive, a bow-mount Minn Kota trolling motor, the stereo system, and all the normal electrical features such as the horn and navigation lights.  The 4 batteries sit where the engine housing and fuel tank would normally go, so no special modifications are needed.  The E-Drive is controlled by normal rigging, so no special steering controls are needed.   And just like any other engine, the throttle controls are part of the installation.  With the exception of having batteries where there’s normally a fuel tank, this pontoon is just like any other–with all the comfort and features you’ve come to expect from a Bennington.

If you have an unusual or unique boating situation and are looking for creative solutions, stop in and talk to us. We’re more than happy to put our knowledge and skills to work for you. We’ve had a lifetime on the water; we want you to enjoy the same.

See photos of the electric pontoon in our gallery