RAD Propulsion unveils 120 kW electric drive at METStrade 2025

RAD Propulsion has introduced the RAD 120, a 120 kW electric drive system aimed at meeting rising demand for higher-power zero-emission marine propulsion. The launch took place today at METStrade 2025.

The UK-based company said the new system builds on its existing RAD 40 platform and is designed for commercial, defence and leisure vessels requiring greater thrust and performance. Operating on 350–450 V, the RAD 120 maintains compatibility with the manufacturer’s current electrical architecture and delivers 120 kW of continuous power. Motor speeds reach up to 5,000 RPM, with propeller speeds of around 3,000 RPM.

Technical specifications

According to RAD Propulsion, the drive can accommodate large blade-area propellers up to 17 inches in diameter, supporting high-thrust operations across a range of vessel types. The unit is available in long and extra-long shaft configurations and weighs 175 kg.

Other features include:

• Integrated steering: 180° built-in steering (90° port and starboard), removing the need for external steering systems.
• Battery flexibility: Compatibility with varied battery configurations, with a recommended minimum of 61 kWh and a preferred 122 kWh capacity. Systems can be linked to reach up to 244 kWh, and generator or range-extender interfaces are available for hybrid use.
• Plug-and-play installation: The complete drive system is delivered ready for installation.
• Propeller options: Support for custom designs, with five to ten standard propellers planned in bronze or stainless steel, in three-, four-, and five-bladed left- and right-hand variants.
• Autonomy integration: Built on the RADBus control architecture, offering fly-by-wire operation and an autonomy interface for advanced control systems.

The RAD 120 is designed to operate in ambient temperatures from –20°C to +80°C and seawater temperatures between 0°C and +35°C.

Industry context and company outlook

“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.”

He added: “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.”

Next steps

RAD Propulsion plans to begin vessel trials of the RAD 120 in Q1 2026 at its facilities in the UK.