There is both a technical and an ideological reason
for the selected semi-planing speed range. Increasing
the speed of the boat well above its characteristic
hull speed to planing speed greatly increases the need
for energy. This would inevitably require higher
engine power as well as further higher battery
capacity to achieve a reasonable operating distance
and thus increase the weight of the boat. That would
also result to raise the price of the boat.
Ideologically, on the other hand, we want boating on
an Elwood boat to be as enjoyable as possible. At
planing speed steering and navigation a boat requires
an intensive attention from the pilot. In addition,
even if the powertrain is quiet, at planing speed the
sound of water and airflow increases the intensity of
the background noise. For these reasons, the hull
shape of Elwood boat is optimized for speeds of 7-10
knots, making the journey enjoyable for everyone and
all senses.