Marine firm on shortlist

By County Press Reporter

Friday, March 5, 2010

A PIONEERING small hybrid boat engine, developed by an Island business, has narrowly missed out on a top award.

Sandown-based Hybrid Marine Ltd reached the regional shortlist for the £40,000 Shell Springboard award for its Hybrid Electric Marine Propulsion (HEMP) system.

The system was developed over seven years by keen sailor Graeme Hawksley, who has a background in electronics and engineering.

It has been designed for small working boats and water taxis and allows greater fuel efficiency and periods of quieter running thanks to a non-polluting electric engine.

Mr Hawksley, company director, said they were delighted to have been shortlisted for award.