oldspeedboats Forum

RESTORATION & HISTORY => Simmonds Boats => Topic started by: Thumper on July 20, 2011, 12:48:20 PM

Title: Simply Electric!
Post by: Thumper on July 20, 2011, 12:48:20 PM
This is something we don't see very often, but one of our Registered boats is up for sale, and comes with very different credentials from most Simmonds we see.

The boat has been the subject of a total bare-metal restoration, but came without an engine. The current owner decided to ditch the conventional route and fitted a modern electric motor instead. He's owned several classic boats, including other Simmonds, and is working on another project now. Because of that, he needs the space, so the electric Simmonds has to go.

With the lack of "originality" in the engine-bay department, she may not tick everyone's set of boxes, but for anyone seeking a reliable runabout for inland waters, then this must be worth considering.

http://www.simmonds-motorlaunches.co.uk/boatsale04_pond.htm
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: BN on July 20, 2011, 06:08:16 PM
Very interesting project, from Daimler to Dynamo  :o I wonder what the top speed is ?
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: Thumper on July 25, 2011, 09:58:47 AM
Not sure BN, and I don't think the current owner has had opportunity yet to find out, as he's only used it on inland waterways, but perhaps around 20 knots. That's only half the potential for the boat with petrol power, of course, but without the noise or fumes. Now, some people may actually find the throaty grumble of a Ford Cosul exactly to their liking, but for the rest, then maybe the stealthy, silent approach may be appealing.

PS Like the new look BN. Can't comment on your relevant posts, though, as they seem to be locked?
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: BN on July 25, 2011, 10:47:28 AM
Hi Thumper, I think, I would rather hear real engine, but I also like the idea of the upgrade, if that is what it is.

Re the forum, I did lock some boards for information only, but this

http://www.oldspeedboats.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=969.0

is open for comments? Regards BN
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: Thumper on July 25, 2011, 12:23:29 PM
Sorry BN, but no "reply" button on that thread.
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: BN on July 25, 2011, 03:44:10 PM
You are correct, I am losing it, that board is a read only. We have means of allowing members to speak, leave it with me  ::)
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: BN on July 25, 2011, 04:48:19 PM
Going back to the original subject, Simone is logged into this forum.
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: Thumper on January 19, 2012, 02:30:15 PM
There's been a fair bit of interest in the "electric" Simmonds, but no firm offers, so the price has been dropped fairly substantially. Perhaps this will help Richard find a new owner for his unique boat.
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: Thumper on September 26, 2012, 09:35:52 AM
I should have updated this thread a little while ago, but a quick update on the "electric" Simmons.

The first new owner took out the electric motor installation to refit into another boat - having bought the Simmonds for the engine, not the hull. He has since passed the Simonds on to another new owner, who plans a full and faithful restoration, so good news all round.
Title: Re: Simply Electric!
Post by: BN on September 26, 2012, 09:37:46 AM
Fantastic, looking good  ;D