Winter storage for electric boats and KRONOS & ARION motors: the simplicity of electric motorisation
The arrival of autumn marks the moment dreaded by boaters: winter storage. But there is good news for owners of electric boats equipped with our KRONOS and ARION motors: winter storage for an electric motor is infinitely simpler than for a combustion engine! Discover in this comprehensive guide why switching to electric with Weenav saves you valuable time and spares you the hassle of winter maintenance.
Why is winterising an electric motor so simple?
The decisive advantage of electric propulsion
Unlike combustion engines, which require a long list of complex operations, Weenav's KRONOS and ARION electric motors require very little maintenance during winter storage. This simplicity is due to their innovative design:
- No fuel to stabilise: no more anti-oxidation additives and no risk of degradation
- No engine oil change: no oil or filter to change
- No spark plugs to check or replace
- No carburettor to clean or protect
- No risk of internal corrosion due to combustion residues
- No exhaust to protect against condensation
With around 100 times fewer moving parts than a combustion engine, Weenav electric motors significantly reduce wear and tear and require much less maintenance.
Winterising your KRONOS outboard motor: minimal maintenance
Features of the KRONOS motor
Weenav's KRONOS electric outboard motor, available in 80 to 300 horsepower versions, represents the pinnacle of marine electric propulsion. Its plug-and-play installation not only makes initial setup easy, but also simplifies seasonal maintenance.
Steps for winterising your KRONOS
To prepare your KRONOS motor for winter, here are a few steps to follow:
1. Exterior cleaning
- Rinse the engine with fresh water to remove salt, mud and residue.
- Apply a suitable cleaning product to the exterior hull.
- Dry all surfaces thoroughly.
2. Protection against moisture
- Spray an anti-corrosion product on exposed metal parts.
- Protect electrical connectors with dielectric grease.
- Check the connections for signs of corrosion.
3. Visual inspection
- Inspect the propeller and replace it if any blades are damaged.
- Check the condition of the sacrificial anode.
- Check the cover for cracks or damage.
4. Engine storage
- Position the engine in an upright position or use a suitable support
- Protect it with a cover if stored outdoors
That's it! Where a combustion engine would require several hours of meticulous work, the KRONOS is ready for winter in less than an hour.
Winter storage of the ARION inboard motor: robustness and reliability
The ARION motor: built to last
The ARION electric inboard motor from Weenav, available in 100 to 1000 horsepower in twin configuration, is discreet, robust and versatile, fitting discreetly into your boat's hold. Its advanced design makes it particularly suitable for large professional and pleasure craft.
Simplified winter maintenance for the ARION engine
Maintenance of the ARION system is mainly software-based and very occasional. For winter storage, operations are limited to:
1. Visual inspection No regular maintenance is required apart from a periodic visual inspection of the heat exchanger. Simply ensure that there are no obstructions or deposits.
2. Checking electrical connections
- Inspect cables and connectors.
- Clean and protect terminals if necessary.
- Check cable passages for leaks.
The first maintenance must be carried out after 20,000 hours of navigation, which represents a considerable saving compared to combustion engines, which require servicing every 100 to 200 hours.
Winter storage of lithium batteries: the crucial point
The importance of batteries in an electric boat
While KRONOS and ARION electric motors are exceptionally simple, batteries deserve special attention during winter storage. Weenav uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, renowned for their reliability and durability.
Recommendations for winter storage of batteries
1. Optimal charge level Storage at a charge level of approximately 50% is optimal for lithium batteries. Contrary to popular belief, they should not be left fully charged during winter.
2. Storage temperature Lithium batteries should be stored at a temperature between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius. Extreme temperatures, particularly below 0°C, can affect their performance and lifespan.
3. Disconnection and storage
- Disconnect the batteries from the electrical system to prevent parasitic discharge.
- If possible, store them in a dry, temperate place.
- Avoid leaving a charger plugged in continuously throughout the winter.
4. Monitoring during winter The charge loss will be 2 to 3% per month at a storage temperature of 25°C, and even less if stored in a cool place. Check the voltage once or twice during winter storage to ensure that it does not fall below 20% charge.
5. Protection against freezing Batteries must not fall below a charge state of 20% and 12.8-volt batteries must not fall below a final discharge voltage of 8 to 10 volts.
Complete winter storage for electric boats
Choosing the type of winter storage
As with all boats, you have several options to choose from:
Winter storage on land
- In a heated hangar: ideal but more expensive solution
- Outdoors under a tarpaulin: economical and effective solution
- On a trailer at home: convenient for maintenance and battery monitoring
Winter storage afloat This option is generally not recommended for electric boats, as the batteries can deteriorate due to significant temperature variations and constant humidity.
Other boat maintenance points
Even though electric motors require little attention, your boat still needs the usual care:
2.General cleaning
- Wash the hull with a suitable product.
- Clean the interior: cabin, lockers, cushions.
- Check the condition of the hull and accessories.
2. Water systems
- Completely drain the fresh water systems.
- Clean the waste water tanks.
- Protect with non-toxic antifreeze if necessary.
3. On-board electronics
- If possible, remove valuable electronic devices.
- Protect the remaining connections with grease.
- Remove the batteries from the various devices.
4. Hull protection
- Take advantage of the winter storage period to inspect the hull.
- Apply antifouling if necessary.
- Repair any cracks or defects.
5. Ventilation and dehumidification
- Install dehumidifiers in the cabin.
- Leave lockers and cupboards open.
- Ensure good ventilation.
6. Exterior protection
- Install a well-fitting, high-quality tarpaulin.
- Check regularly that it is weatherproof.
- Ensure good air circulation to prevent condensation.
The savings of electric winter storage
Considerable time savings
Winter storage of a combustion engine generally requires between 4 and 8 hours of meticulous work. With a Weenav electric motor, you can reduce this time to less than 2 hours, including batteries. This is valuable time that you can devote to other activities!
Financial savings
The costs of winterising a combustion engine include:
- Engine oil and sump drain
- Filters (oil, petrol)
- Fuel stabiliser
- Antifreeze for the cooling system
- Spark plug replacement
- Specialised products (Stopsel, etc.)
- Labour if done on site
Total for a thermal: €300 to €800 depending on size
With a KRONOS or ARION electric motor:
- Cleaning product: £20
- Anti-corrosion treatment: £15
- Grease for connectors: £10
Total for an electric motor: less than £50!
The savings on winter storage are added to the savings on usage: thanks to low maintenance costs and a long service life, electric systems quickly pay for themselves.
Weenav supports you throughout the year
Customer service at your service
At Weenav, we don't just sell you an electric motor. We support you with the complete maintenance of your boat, beyond simple electric motorisation. Our partner BoatnGo can take care of your regular maintenance if you wish.
Updates and continuous improvement
Maintenance will mainly be software-based. Stay up to date to enjoy the best features. We are constantly developing new features to improve our customers' boating experience.
Network of partner shipyards
If you prefer to entrust the winter storage of your boat to professionals, we work with numerous shipyards throughout France. They are fully familiar with our systems and can take care of all operations.
Winter storage: the ideal time to switch to electric
If you still own a combustion engine boat and find winter storage constraints burdensome, now may be the ideal time to consider an electric retrofit with Weenav.
Electric retrofitting: an ecological transition
Electric retrofitting reduces GHG emissions associated with the production of a new boat by 56%. By converting your existing boat, you are making a significant contribution to the environment while keeping your boat.
Comprehensive support
Our design office manages all stages of the design of your electric or hybrid motorisation system. We support you throughout this project, and your main point of contact will be and will remain Weenav.
Financial assistance available
Depending on your navigation sector (inland waters or maritime) and your type of activity (professional or private), you may be eligible for subsidies for converting your boat to electric power. Contact us to find out more about the assistance available in your region.
Conclusion: simplified winter storage thanks to Weenav
Winter storage of an electric boat equipped with a KRONOS or ARION motor is a striking demonstration of the advantages of electric propulsion. Less maintenance, lower costs, fewer constraints, and more time to enjoy your passion.
With a lifespan at least three times longer than its combustion engine equivalent, your investment in a Weenav system quickly pays for itself, especially when you consider how simple winter maintenance is.
Electric boating with Weenav means freedom: silent, emission-free boating without the hassle of complex maintenance. This winter, while owners of combustion engines spend hours draining, stabilising and protecting their engines, you can enjoy your free time knowing that your boat is ready to take to the water as soon as the weather improves.
Contact Weenav for more information
Are you interested in switching to electric propulsion or do you have questions about maintaining your KRONOS or ARION motor? Our team of experts is available to advise and assist you with your electric boating project.
Configure your electric motor now on our website and discover how you can simplify your boating life while helping to preserve the marine environment.
Publishes on : 30/10/25
Editor : Sophie Castelain
