RIVA: SILENT CLASSIC

Mixing classic looks with a thoroughly modern electric powertrain, the El-Iseo prototype is the Riva runabout of the future.

Making its debut at the Yacht Club de Monaco, the El-Iseo is essentially a much-loved Iseo, but with its petrol/diesel engine swapped for electric power.

ELECTRIC POWER

Riva has gone with a Parker GVM310 full electric engine for the prototype. Parker’s technology patents stretch back to 1908, and just to put its work into context, Parker’s controls were used on every space mission, including the Apollo 11 moon landing and the Apollo 13 response mission.

Parker’s Riva engine has a power output of 250 kW and 300 kW peak, enabling the El-Iseo to reach a top speed of 25 knots and a self-limited top speed of 40 knots. Although it lacks the rumble of a V8, the GVM310’s instant power gives the Riva an acceleration curve significantly steeper than that of an internal combustion engine, which is ideal for a fun runabout.

ENJOY THE SILENCE

Range-wise, the El-Iseo’s Podium Advanced Technologies lithium battery pack delivers up to ten hours of navigation in economy mode, while Ferretti Group partner Xenta has taken care of the integrated onboard systems, including the transmission, throttles control systems, and battery charging modes.

“El-Iseo is a glorious new chapter in the challenge that only Riva can experience every day, that of combining its legendary history with cutting-edge technology to generate beauty and style that will never go out of fashion,” said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi at the launch. “The El-Iseo project is extremely important to us, which is why we decided to preview it here at the Monaco Yacht Club, a natural choice for Riva as it’s a place where ecological sensibility has been at work for years, with virtuous practices and concrete initiatives like the Sea Index, the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Rendezvous and the Energy Boat Challenge.

Now 180 years old, Riva is still leading the field with the credibility and visionary force that only a contemporary legend can draw on.”

The El-Iseo, with its unmistakable finishes, colours, and detailing certainly has the soul of Riva, it’s just that its heart beats with a different pulse.