Electric pontoon boats have a long and intriguing history in Wichita, Kansas. These vessels, designed for leisurely cruising on lakes and rivers, have become a popular choice among boaters in the area. From their humble beginnings to the advanced technology of today's models, electric pontoon boats have played an important role in shaping the boating culture of Wichita. The first electric pontoon boat was invented by Ambrose Weeres in 1952. Weeres owned a small welding shop near Lake Waconia, Minnesota and noticed that many people were using wooden barrels as makeshift rafts on the lake. He saw an opportunity to create a safer and more comfortable option for these individuals and developed a simple platform with two pontoons attached underneath. These early versions of electric pontoon boats were powered by car batteries connected to an electric trolling motor. They were primarily used for fishing or relaxing on calm waters. The popularity of these boats quickly grew as they provided an affordable way for families to enjoy time on the water without breaking the bank. In the 1970s, Fred & Mike Koger purchased Weeres Industries and began producing electric pontoons under their own brand name – Sun Tracker Boats. This move helped catapult electric pontoons into mainstream popularity as well-known brands like Sun Tracker gained recognition across America. Wichita became one of the leading markets for Sun Tracker Boats due to its central location near several large lakes including Cheney Reservoir, El Dorado Lake, Marion Reservoir, Kanopolis Lake, Milford Lake and Perry Reservoir. With access to such beautiful bodies of water just miles away from downtown Wichita city center it was no wonder why so many residents chose this leisure activity which became synonymous with summer fun! As technology advanced throughout the years so did electric pontoon boats. Improvements in battery life led manufacturers to develop larger motors capable of powering bigger vessels with longer run times between charges. And while the original electric pontoon boats were designed for leisurely cruising, advancements in motor power and design have allowed for higher speeds, making them suitable for watersports such as tubing and wakeboarding. In recent years, concerns over environmental impact have led to a surge in popularity of electric pontoon boats. With zero emissions and no noise pollution, these vessels are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered boats. Wichita has been at the forefront of this movement with several boat rental companies offering exclusively electric options on their fleets. The demand for electric pontoons continues to grow in Wichita as more people choose to spend time outdoors and explore the beautiful lakes that surround the city. The local boating community has also embraced these vessels, hosting events such as "Electric Boat Parades" where owners decorate their boats with lights and decorations while cruising together on the water. Furthermore, manufacturers are constantly innovating and improving upon designs to make electric pontoons even more efficient and user-friendly. Some models now feature solar panels or hybrid engines to extend battery life even further. The future looks bright for electric pontoon boats in Wichita as they continue to gain popularity among both locals and tourists alike. As technology advances further, it is likely we will see even more improvements in performance and sustainability – solidifying their place as a staple of recreational boating activities on Kansas' many lakes. In conclusion, electric pontoon boats have come a long way since their humble beginnings in Minnesota back in 1952. From simple platforms powered by car batteries to advanced models featuring hybrid engines and solar panels, these vessels have become an integral part of boating culture in Wichita. With its central location surrounded by beautiful lakes, it's no surprise that this city has played such an important role in shaping the history of these environmentally friendly watercrafts.
Introduction Electric pontoon boats are a relatively new innovation in the boating industry. They offer an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to traditional gas-powered boats, making them increasingly popular among boaters. In this paper, we will explore the history of electric pontoon boats, their design and functionality, as well as their benefits and drawbacks. History of Electric Pontoon Boats The first electric boat was invented by Moritz von Jacobi in 1839. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that electric propulsion systems were developed for recreational boating purposes. The earliest forms of electric boats were primarily used for small-scale fishing or leisure activities on lakes and rivers. In recent years, with advancements in technology and growing concerns about environmental sustainability, there has been a surge in interest for electric boats. This has led to the development of various types of electric-powered vessels such as sailboats, speedboats, yachts, and most notably – pontoon boats. Design and Functionality Electric pontoon boats have a similar design to traditional gasoline-powered pontoons but are powered by an onboard battery system instead of a combustion engine. The batteries can be charged at shore-based charging stations or via solar panels on board. These boats typically have two modes – cruising mode for steady speeds and sport mode for faster acceleration. They also come equipped with features such as GPS navigation systems, sound systems, LED lighting options, bimini tops for shade coverage and swim platforms with ladders for easy access to water activities. Benefits of Electric Pontoon Boats One major advantage of using an electric pontoon boat is its low carbon footprint compared to gas-powered alternatives. With no fuel emissions or noise pollution from engines running constantly while cruising through waterways - these environmentally friendly vessels provide a peaceful experience both on board and off-board. Moreover, electric motors require minimal maintenance compared to conventional internal combustion engines which require frequent oil changes/repairs and produce a lot of noise. This makes electric pontoons more cost-effective in the long run. In addition, with no need for gas refueling, there is no risk of fuel spillage which can be harmful to marine life and the environment. Electric pontoon boats also have lower operating costs as electricity is cheaper than gasoline. Drawbacks of Electric Pontoon Boats Despite their many benefits, electric pontoon boats do have some drawbacks. One main concern is their limited range compared to traditional gasoline-powered pontoons. Most electric models can only travel up to 50 miles on a single charge, making them less suitable for long-distance trips or excursions. Another drawback is the time it takes to recharge the batteries. Depending on the size of the boat and battery capacity, it could take several hours to fully charge before being able to use again. This may be inconvenient for those who want to spend longer periods out on the water without needing breaks for recharging. Furthermore, the initial purchase price of an electric boat may be higher compared to its gas-powered counterpart due to advanced technology and specialized components required for its design. Additionally, there are still limited options available in terms of variety and customization when it comes to choosing an electric pontoon boat model. Conclusion In conclusion, electric pontoon boats offer a sustainable alternative that has gained popularity among boaters in recent years. Their eco-friendly nature along with low maintenance costs make them attractive options for those looking for a more efficient way of boating while minimizing their environmental impact. However, challenges such as limited range and longer charging times still exist which may hinder widespread adoption by all types of boaters. With continued advancements in technology and increased demand from consumers towards greener alternatives – we can expect further improvements in performance and availability of these vessels in the future. Overall, electric pontoon boats provide a promising step towards a cleaner and quieter boating experience while preserving our waterways for generations to come.
Electric pontoon boats have a long and rich history in Wichita, Kansas. The city is known for its abundant waterways, including the Arkansas River and numerous lakes, making it an ideal location for boating enthusiasts. The earliest record of electric-powered boats in Wichita dates back to the late 19th century when Thomas Edison's company built a small fleet of electrically propelled launches to showcase their new technology at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. These boats were used for short pleasure cruises on the river and quickly gained popularity among locals. In the early 20th century, as electricity became more accessible and affordable, electric boats began to appear more frequently on Wichita's waterways. They were often used by wealthy residents for leisurely rides or fishing trips on nearby lakes such as Cheney Reservoir and Marion Lake. One notable event that helped boost the popularity of electric pontoon boats was the establishment of Joyland Amusement Park in 1949. Located along the banks of the Arkansas River, Joyland featured a large lake with several attractions such as paddleboats and canoes powered by electricity. This provided an opportunity for families to enjoy a day out on the water without having to own their own boat. As time went on, advancements in technology made electric motors more efficient and reliable, leading to an increase in production of electric-powered pontoon boats. In addition to recreational use, these boats also became popular among fishermen due to their quiet operation and ability to navigate shallow waters where fish tend to congregate. Today, there are several companies based in Wichita that specialize in building custom-made electric pontoon boats tailored specifically for local conditions. These eco-friendly vessels have become increasingly popular not only because they are emission-free but also because they offer a peaceful way of enjoying nature without disturbing wildlife or polluting water sources. Furthermore, many marinas around Wichita now offer charging stations specifically designed for electrical-powered boats, making it convenient for owners to recharge their batteries while out on the water. In recent years, Wichita has also become a hub for electric boat racing. The city hosted its first ever Electric Boat Challenge in 2018, attracting teams from across the country to compete in a series of races on the Arkansas River. This event not only showcased the capabilities of electric boats but also promoted sustainable and clean energy use in boating. Overall, the history of electric pontoon boats in Wichita reflects the city's commitment to preserving its natural resources and promoting environmentally friendly activities. As technology continues to advance and more people embrace eco-friendly practices, it is likely that these quiet and efficient vessels will continue to play a significant role in Wichita's boating culture for many years to come.
Located in the heart of the Great Plains, Wichita, Kansas is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Known as the "Air Capital of the World" for its prominent role in aviation manufacturing, Wichita has evolved into an economic hub and cultural center that continues to attract visitors from around the country. The area that is now known as Wichita was originally home to Native American tribes such as the Osage, Pawnee, and Wichita. The first European explorers arrived in 1541 when Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led an expedition through modern-day Kansas. However, it wasn't until 1830 that permanent settlement began when Jesse Chisholm established a trading post along the Arkansas River. In 1863, with tensions high during the Civil War, Union soldiers founded Fort Wichita on land owned by local trader James R. Mead. This fort served as a base for military operations against Confederate forces and also provided protection for settlers moving westward on their journey towards California or Oregon. As more people settled in this region of Kansas after the war ended, they formed communities like Delano and became part of Sedgwick County when it was created in 1867. In 1870, Wichita saw rapid growth due to its location at a natural crossroads between cattle trails from Texas and railroads heading eastward. With this influx of people came businesses such as saloons, blacksmith shops, hotels, and general stores which helped establish Wichita's economy. However,it wasn't until oil was discovered nearby in El Dorado in 1915 that Wichita truly started booming. The discovery brought jobs and wealth to the city which allowed for further development of industries such as aircraft manufacturing - ultimately earning them their title "Air Capital of the World." Companies like Beechcraft Corporation (now Textron Aviation), Cessna Aircraft Company (now part of Textron Aviation), and Learjet (now a subsidiary of Bombardier Aerospace) all had their beginnings in Wichita. During World War II, these aircraft manufacturing companies played a crucial role in producing military planes for the war effort. This solidified Wichita's place as a major player in the aviation industry and led to further growth and prosperity for the city. Today, Wichita is home to over 390,000 people and continues to be an economic powerhouse with diverse industries such as healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing, finance, and agriculture. The city also boasts several higher education institutions including Wichita State University which has one of the top engineering programs in the country. Aside from its strong economy, Wichita also offers a variety of attractions for visitors. One of its most popular destinations is Exploration Place - an interactive science center that features exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to Kansas wildlife. Another must-visit spot is Old Cowtown Museum which allows visitors to step back in time and experience life on the prairie during the 19th century. Wichita is also known for its vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries showcasing local artists' work and events like Final Fridays - a monthly art crawl where galleries stay open late offering live music performances and food trucks. The city's annual Riverfest celebration draws thousands of attendees each year with activities like concerts, parades, fireworks displays,and more. In addition to being a hub for business and culture,Wichita also takes pride in preserving its history through various museums such as Mid-America All-Indian Center which celebrates Native American heritage or Kansas Aviation Museum which showcases the city's rich aviation history. Despite facing challenges like any other growing city,Wichita remains resilient thanks to its hardworking community members who are dedicated to making it a great place to live,eat,and play.Their motto "Keep Moving Forward" reflects this determination,and it shows through their continuous development projects aimed at improving infrastructure,promoting tourism,and supporting local businesses. In conclusion, Wichita, Kansas is a city with a storied past and an exciting future. From its humble beginnings as a small trading post to its current status as a thriving metropolis, the city has come a long way. With its strong economy, diverse culture,and endless opportunities for entertainment,Wichita truly offers something for everyone. Whether you're planning to visit or considering making it your home,Wichita is definitely worth checking out.
The history of electric pontoon boats can be traced back to the early 20th century, when advances in technology and a growing interest in recreational boating led to the development of these innovative vessels. While traditional pontoon boats were powered by gasoline engines, the emergence of electric motors allowed for a more environmentally friendly and efficient option. In the early 1900s, boating was primarily reserved for commercial or military purposes. However, with advancements in motor technology and an increase in leisure time among Americans, recreational boating became more popular. In 1893, Thomas Edison showcased his new storage battery at the Chicago World's Fair, which sparked interest in using electricity as a propulsion source for boats. The first known electric boat was developed by Moritz von Jacobi in Russia around 1839. It was powered by an electromagnetic engine and could reach speeds up to six miles per hour. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that electric boats began to gain momentum. In 1912, Horace E Dodge Jr., son of one of the founders of Dodge Brothers Motor Company (later acquired by Chrysler), built what is believed to be one of the first modern electric-powered pontoon boats. The vessel was named "Nereid" and featured two sets of batteries powering four propellers – allowing it to reach speeds up to seven knots (8 mph). During this time period, many other inventors were also exploring ways to power boats with electricity. In fact, during World War I there was significant research being conducted on how best to use battery power for marine transportation due to concerns over fuel shortages. However it wasn't until after World War II that recreational boating truly took off as soldiers returned home looking for new forms of entertainment. This coincided with major developments in battery technology which made them smaller yet more powerful – making them ideal for use on watercrafts. In 1946, the first electric pontoon boat designed for recreational use was released by the Electric Launch Company (ELCO). The 16-foot "Elco Cruiser" featured a 1.5 horsepower motor and could reach speeds up to five miles per hour. This was significant as it made boating more accessible to individuals who may not have had experience operating gasoline-powered boats. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, electric pontoon boats continued to gain popularity among recreational boaters. In addition to being quieter and more efficient than their gasoline counterparts, they also emitted no harmful pollutants into the water – making them an attractive option for those concerned about environmental impact. In the late 1960s, advancements in battery technology allowed for longer battery life and increased power output. This led to larger electric pontoons being built which were capable of carrying heavier loads and reaching higher speeds. By the early 1970s, companies such as Taylor Boats Inc., Electro-Craft Corporation, and DD Motor Systems were producing fully-electric powered pontoon boats with multiple motors capable of reaching speeds up to eight knots (9 mph). However, despite these developments in technology and growing interest in eco-friendly alternatives, gas-powered pontoons still dominated the market due to their greater speed capabilities and longer range. It wasn't until recent years that there has been a resurgence of interest in electric pontoon boats. With concerns over air pollution from traditional marine engines becoming more prevalent, many manufacturers have begun offering hybrid or fully-electric options for consumers looking for a greener alternative. Today's electric pontoon boats can reach impressive speeds while maintaining low noise levels and minimal environmental impact. They are also equipped with advanced features such as solar panels on top decks that help extend battery life while out on the water. Electric pontoons continue to evolve with new technological advances allowing for even greater efficiency – such as lithium-ion batteries which offer faster charging times and longer battery life. As environmental concerns and regulations continue to grow, it is likely that electric pontoon boats will become an even more popular choice among recreational boaters. In conclusion, the history of electric pontoon boats spans over a century and has seen significant advancements in technology and design. From its humble beginnings as a small vessel powered by two sets of batteries, to today's powerful and eco-friendly options, these boats have come a long way. With the increasing focus on sustainability and protecting our waterways, it is safe to say that the future looks bright for electric pontoons.
Electric pontoon boats have a history dating back to the early 1900s when electric motors were first invented. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that electric pontoon boats gained popularity and became more widely available. In the early years, electric motors were mainly used for fishing boats due to their quiet operation and ability to navigate shallow waters. This made them ideal for fishermen who wanted to sneak up on fish without scaring them away. As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of electric motors and batteries. In the 1970s, advances in battery technology allowed for longer-lasting and more powerful batteries, making it possible for larger boats like pontoons to be powered by electricity. The first commercially available electric pontoon boat was introduced in the late 1980s by a company called Electracraft. Their flagship model, named The Baycruiser, had an average speed of around six miles per hour and could travel up to ten hours on a single charge. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, several other companies began producing their own versions of electric pontoon boats with varying features such as solar panels or regenerative braking systems. One major factor that contributed to the rise in popularity of electric pontoon boats was growing concerns about environmental impact and pollution caused by traditional gasoline-powered boats. Electric motors produce zero emissions while running which makes them an attractive option for eco-conscious boaters. Today's modern electric pontoons offer even more advanced features such as lithium-ion batteries that can provide longer run times and faster speeds than ever before. They also come equipped with amenities commonly found on traditional gas-powered pontoons such as comfortable seating options, entertainment systems, and onboard bathrooms. In recent years there has been a significant increase in demand for alternative energy sources in all aspects of life including boating. As a result, many manufacturers are now focusing on developing new technologies aimed at improving the performance and range of electric pontoon boats. In addition to being environmentally friendly, electric pontoons also offer a quieter and more peaceful boating experience. With no loud engine noise, passengers can enjoy the sounds of nature and have conversations without having to raise their voices. Overall, the history of electric pontoon boats is still relatively short but has seen significant advancements in technology and popularity over the past few decades. As society continues to prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices, it is likely that we will see even more developments in this area with regards to electric pontoon boats in the future.
Wichita, Kansas is a city that has played an important role in the history of the United States. With its rich heritage and diverse culture, Wichita has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the largest cities in Kansas and a major economic hub for the Midwest region. The story of Wichita's development is one of resilience, innovation, and progress. The first inhabitants of what is now known as Wichita were Native American tribes such as the Osage, Pawnee, and Comanche who settled along the banks of the Arkansas River. The area was attractive for these groups due to its abundant natural resources including wildlife and fertile land for farming. In 1541, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado became the first European to visit this region during his search for gold. It wasn't until 1863 that Wichita was officially founded by Jesse Chisholm, a trader who established a trading post on the site where two rivers met -the Little Arkansas River and Big Arkansas River- which he named after his friend William "Buffalo Bill" Cody’s hometown in New York. At this time, it was still considered part of Indian Territory under government control. In 1865 with Abraham Lincoln's Homestead Act offering free land grants to settlers willing to move westward into unsettled territory like Kansas had been up until then; people started flocking into Wichita causing rapid population growth at an average rate of about seven percent per year over several decades following its establishment. One significant event that shaped early Wichita was when cattle drives began passing through on their way north from Texas along Chisholm Trail which ran right through downtown. This brought cowboys looking for rest & relaxation (and likely trouble) creating saloons & brothels all around town giving rise to what would eventually be dubbed “Cowtown”. By late 1870s railroads had reached here too providing faster more efficient ways not only getting goods to market, but also people in and out. With Wichita's central location it became a major distribution center for the region. In 1870, Wichita was officially incorporated as a city with its first mayor being James R. Mead. The early years of the city were marked by rapid growth and development, fueled by industries such as cattle trading, agriculture, and oil exploration. The discovery of oil in nearby areas brought wealth and prosperity to Wichita which led to an increase in population and urbanization. During this time period, Wichita experienced significant changes and advancements including the construction of new buildings such as banks, hotels, schools, churches, theaters and other commercial establishments that transformed it into a modern metropolis. Wichita's economy continued to thrive through the early 20th century with the rise of aviation industry thanks largely to figures like Lloyd Stearman who opened his first aircraft manufacturing plant here in 1926 growing rapidly over subsequent decades becoming home base for world renowned names like Beechcraft & Cessna amongst others still operating today. The Great Depression hit hard not only nationwide but locally too when Kansas’ largest bank failed leading many businesses unable secure credit ultimately closing their doors (and some never reopening). Yet during WWII much needed military aircraft production kept this area booming helping set stage for what would come after war finally ended bringing more innovation & new companies while building on local’s already long established ties aerospace sector. In addition to its economic growth during this time period, Wichita also saw social progress with efforts towards civil rights gaining momentum. In 1958 Drury Walker Jr., an African American teacher at North High School filed a lawsuit against local school officials claiming unequal pay compared white counterparts; eventually winning decision case before Supreme Court making it national landmark ruling eradicating wage discrimination laws across country Today,Wichita is known as “Air Capital of World” because nearly half all general aviation planes produced globally are manufactured locally. The city continues to thrive economically with a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology. In recent years, Wichita has also made strides in preserving its history and promoting cultural diversity. The Old Town district preserves the city's historic buildings while offering trendy restaurants and boutiques. Museums such as the Mid-America All-Indian Center celebrate Native American culture and heritage. Wichita has also become a hub for education with several universities including Wichita State University, Friends University, Newman University, and Butler Community College providing opportunities for higher learning. In conclusion, Wichita's history is one of resilience and progress. From its humble beginnings as a trading post to becoming an economic powerhouse in the Midwest region today, this city has seen many transformations but remains rooted in its rich heritage. With its strong commitment towards innovation and community growth, there is no doubt that Wichita will continue to play an important role in shaping the future of Kansas and beyond.
Wichita, Kansas has a rich and diverse history spanning over centuries. The area that is now known as Wichita was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Wichita, Osage, and Pawnee people. These indigenous communities were largely nomadic and relied on hunting buffalo for their survival. In 1541, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado became the first European to visit the area. However, it wasn't until the 1800s when permanent settlements began to form in Wichita. In 1863, Jesse Chisholm established a trading post along the banks of the Arkansas River, which attracted settlers looking for new opportunities in westward expansion. The city's name "Wichita" comes from the Wichita tribe who were relocated to this region after being forced off their land by white settlers. By 1870, Wichita had become an important stop on cattle drives from Texas to railheads in Kansas City and other eastern cities. The arrival of railroads in the late 19th century brought about significant growth and development for Wichita. It quickly became a major hub for commerce and transportation with its strategic location at the intersection of several railroad lines. This led to an influx of businesses and industries such as milling, meatpacking plants, oil refining facilities, and aircraft manufacturing. One key event that shaped Wichita's history was when brothers Clyde Cessna and Walter Beech established airplane manufacturing companies within miles of each other in 1916-1917. These small aviation companies later merged with others to form what is now known as Boeing Aircraft Corporation - making Wichita one of America's top aviation hubs. During World War II, Boeing played a vital role in producing military aircrafts like B-29 bombers which helped secure victory for Allied forces. This solidified Wichita's reputation as an aerospace powerhouse leading up into modern times. Aside from aviation industry growth during this time period (1920s-1960s), Wichita also saw significant advancements in other industries such as agriculture, oil, and gas. The city became known as the "Air Capital of the World" and continued to experience economic growth throughout the 20th century. In recent years, Wichita has undergone a revitalization effort to diversify its economy and attract new businesses. This has led to an increase in technology companies and healthcare organizations setting up headquarters in the city. Additionally, tourism has become a major contributor to Wichita's economy with attractions like Old Town entertainment district, Sedgwick County Zoo, Botanica Gardens, and numerous museums drawing visitors from all over. Today, Wichita is a thriving metropolitan area with a population of over 390,000 residents. It continues to honor its rich history while embracing innovation and progress for its future. From its humble beginnings as a trading post on the prairie to a bustling urban center full of culture and opportunity - Wichita's story is one of resilience, growth, and community spirit.
Electric pontoon boats have a long and rich history in Wichita, Kansas. Located in the heart of the Great Plains, Wichita is known as the "Air Capital of the World" due to its prominent role in aviation manufacturing. However, many people may not be aware that it also has a strong connection to electric pontoon boats. The origins of electric pontoon boats can be traced back to 1952 when Paul Seaman built his first prototype electric boat on Beaver Lake near Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This early design featured an outboard motor powered by rechargeable batteries and was primarily used for fishing and leisurely cruises on lakes and rivers. In 1960, Richard DeVore moved from California to Wichita with his family and brought with him a passion for boating. He noticed that there were no regulations prohibiting electric motors on local waterways and saw an opportunity to start a business selling these innovative vessels. In partnership with Dick Walterscheidt, they founded Electric Boat Company (EBC) in 1965. At this time, pontoons were mostly used as workboats or ferries rather than recreational vessels. DeVore saw potential in transforming these utilitarian crafts into comfortable leisure boats suitable for families and larger groups. With their sturdy construction and spacious decks, pontoons provided an ideal base for customizing into luxurious floating cruisers. Initially operating from a rented garage at McConnell Air Force Base in southeast Wichita, EBC began converting existing pontoons into electric-powered pleasure craft using off-the-shelf components such as golf cart batteries and trolling motors. They also designed their own fiberglass hulls which were more efficient than traditional aluminum ones commonly found at that time. EBC's success grew rapidly thanks largely to word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers who appreciated the quiet operation of their new vessels compared to noisy gasoline engines commonly used at the time. Despite being slower than gas-powered boats due to limited battery power, they were perfect for cruising the numerous lakes and rivers in Kansas where speed limits of 10 mph or less are enforced. In the early 1970s, EBC moved to a larger facility on Pawnee Street and expanded its product line to include larger models with more powerful motors. They also manufactured boats under their own brand name called "Voyager." In addition to electric power, they offered options such as canopies, ski-tow bars, and custom upholstery. EBC's reputation continued to grow throughout the decade, aided by articles in national boating magazines and coverage on local television news programs. Their boats drew interest from around the country including celebrities such as Bob Hope who ordered one for his estate in Palm Springs, California. In 1981 DeVore sold EBC which was then known as Voyager Electric Boats (VEB) to another Wichita-based company called Marine World Industries (MWI). Under new ownership VEB introduced several innovations including solar-powered cruisers equipped with panels that could recharge batteries while underway. Sadly, MWI went out of business within three years leaving VEB without financial backing. DeVore reacquired VEB assets but had difficulty keeping up with competitors' evolving designs. By this time gasoline engines had become much quieter making electric propulsion less attractive. As a result many operators converted existing pontoons back into gas-powered vessels or traded them in for newer models that ran faster than ever before thanks to advances in motor technology. DeVore retired from manufacturing altogether after selling off remaining inventory at auction during late 1990s sales slump caused by economic recession and rising fuel prices following Gulf War I. But he never lost his love of boating nor faith that one day clean energy would triumph over fossil fuels even though it may have seemed far-fetched at the time given limited battery capacities available then compared today when lithium-ion cells offer much longer range between charging cycles combined smaller size lighter weight allowing more energy store in less space. Today electric pontoon boats are making a comeback and gaining popularity once again. In recent years, several companies have emerged offering eco-friendly and efficient electric pontoons for sale or rent. They come equipped with modern features such as GPS navigation systems, solar panels, and lithium-ion batteries which provide longer run times and faster speeds. Wichita continues to be at the forefront of this industry with local businesses like The Electric Boat Company leading the way. They offer custom-built electric pontoons that can navigate both shallow rivers and large lakes with ease while also being environmentally friendly. In conclusion, Wichita has played a significant role in the development of electric pontoon boats since their inception over 50 years ago. From humble beginnings in a garage to becoming an established manufacturer, EBC set the foundation for what is now a growing market for clean energy boating options. With advancements in technology, it is safe to say that the future looks bright for electric pontoon boats in Wichita and beyond.
Introduction: Electric pontoon boats have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their eco-friendliness and quiet operation. These boats are powered by electric motors instead of traditional gasoline engines, making them an attractive option for those who enjoy spending time on the water without causing harm to the environment. In this paper, we will explore the history of electric pontoon boats, their benefits and drawbacks, and how they differ from their traditional counterparts. History: The first electric boat was invented by Moritz von Jacobi in 1839. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that electric propulsion systems were introduced in recreational boating. The initial models were limited in power and range but with advancements in technology, electric motors became more efficient and powerful. In 2006, Duffy Electric Boat Company introduced a fully-electric pontoon boat which gained popularity among boaters looking for a cleaner alternative to traditional gasoline-powered pontoons. Since then, many manufacturers have followed suit and now offer various options for electric pontoon boats. Benefits: One of the major benefits of an electric pontoon boat is its eco-friendliness. Unlike gas-powered boats which emit harmful pollutants into the water and air, these boats operate using clean electricity which does not contribute to air or water pollution. Another advantage is the quiet operation of these boats. Traditional gas-powered pontoons can be noisy and disruptive to both marine life and other boaters on the waterways. Electric motors run silently allowing for a more peaceful experience on board. Moreover, maintenance costs are significantly lower with an electric motor as there are no oil changes or spark plug replacements required. This also means less hassle when it comes to winterizing your boat at the end of each season. Drawbacks: While there are several advantages to owning an electric pontoon boat, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase decision. Range limitation is one issue often associated with these boats. The battery life of an electric pontoon boat can vary depending on the size and weight of the boat, as well as external factors such as wind and currents. On average, a fully charged battery can last anywhere from 4-8 hours, limiting the distance that can be covered in one trip. Another drawback is the initial cost of purchasing an electric pontoon boat. These boats tend to be more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts due to the advanced technology and batteries required for operation. However, it is important to note that over time, savings on fuel costs may offset this initial investment. Differences from traditional pontoons: Aside from being powered by electricity instead of gasoline, there are several other differences between electric pontoon boats and traditional ones. One major difference is in speed. Electric motors have less horsepower compared to gasoline engines which means they cannot reach high speeds like traditional pontoons do. This makes them ideal for leisurely cruising rather than high-speed water activities. Additionally, handling an electric pontoon boat may feel different compared to a gas-powered one due to its weight distribution and propulsion system. It's important for boaters to familiarize themselves with how these differences may affect their experience on board before taking out an electric pontoon for the first time. Conclusion: Electric pontoon boats offer a cleaner alternative for recreational boating while also providing a quiet and low-maintenance option for enthusiasts. With advancements in technology leading to improved battery life and efficiency, we can expect these eco-friendly options to become even more popular in the future. However, it's essential for buyers to consider both the benefits and drawbacks before making a purchase decision based on their specific needs and usage patterns. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, we may see further improvements in range limitation and cost-effectiveness of owning an electric pontoon boat. In conclusion, electric pontoon boats offer not only environmental advantages but also provide boaters with a peaceful and low-maintenance option for enjoying time on the water. As more people become aware of their benefits, we can expect to see an increase in demand for these eco-friendly vessels in the boating industry.