Hobie Cat® Introduces Hobie eVolve Electric Drive

For Immediate Release

Oceanside, California October 22, 2009 Hobie’s commitment to kayaking and fishing is taking on a new dimension with the introduction of their Hobie eVolve electric drive available as an accessory to any Hobie MirageDrive™ pedal-propelled kayak and Pro Angler fishing boat.

This Hobie-designed system integrates a Torqeedo electric motor with two easy-to-use mounts, one that slips into Hobie’s MirageDrive pedal well and one that fits onto any Hobie Twist and Stow rudder. The Hobie eVolve rudder-mounted motor can be used by itself or it can be combined with the MirageDrive pedal system for extra propulsion and added range. Either way, the result for Hobie customers is a quiet, efficient and emissions-free motor to navigate current-ripped bays and coastal tours or for a quick run across the lake to a favorite fishing spot. The Hobie eVolve will be available at retail in November at an MSRP of $1899. The announcement was made by Doug Skidmore, president of Hobie Cat Company.

Hobie Cat, the world-renowned sailboat, fishing boat and kayak company, partnered with German-based Torqeedo to develop this custom-designed system. “We intend to stay ahead of the curve and work with partners like Torqeedo to devise products that enhance kayaking, fishing, and sailing experiences of our customers,” stated Skidmore. “The introduction of the Hobie eVolve is our latest such product to bring to market… and there is still a very long list on the drawing board.”

A remote throttle display attaches to the side hull near the seat of the kayaks or onto the side rail of the Pro Angler. It controls the throttle and displays charge status, distance remaining, speed over ground and power consumption in watts. The throttle pad is also equipped with a magnetic key pad for safety shut-off and to prevent theft. A 230-watt Lithium Manganese Battery/Computer is the heart that pumps the power to the motor. At only 6.6 pounds, it has a built-in GPS for speed calculations, is completely watertight and will even float. At full charge, the battery will perform for up to eight hours at 2MPH cruising speed. When all components are connected, they are IP68 watertight (international standard for marine electronics).

The kit includes the following parts:

• Ready-to-go Hobie eVolve with Torqeedo motor for mounting in the MirageDrive well
  
• Second Hobie eVolve assembly to adapt the Torqeedo motor to fit the Hobie Twist and Stow rudder
  
• Sealed and waterproofed Lithium Manganese performance Battery/Computer with charger
  
• Remote throttle with LCD display showing range/speed data generated using onboard GPS
  
• Safety shut-off key
  
• Waterproof components and cable connectors
  
• Corrosion-resistant materials and motor design
  
• Cables for motor and throttle
  
• All mounting hardware

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of eco-friendly watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats; pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks; fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.