Taiga Motors, a Quebec-based manufacturer specializing in electric powersports vehicles, has recently unveiled the Orca Performance, a new addition to their lineup of electric personal watercraft. This launch follows the company’s earlier commitment to offering a more budget-friendly version of its popular Orca model.
Taiga Motors has gained attention for its innovative approach to electric powersports, producing electric snowmobiles and the emission-free Orca personal watercraft. Electrek, a prominent publication in the field, had the opportunity to test the electric Orca on Canadian waters. The company’s announcement of the Orca Performance comes three years after their initial intention to create a more affordable alternative to the existing Orca Carbon, which is priced above $26,000.
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In line with this commitment, Taiga Motors has now officially introduced the Orca Performance and is accepting orders for the new model.
According to the company, the Orca Performance is the result of six years of research and development efforts. This new electric watercraft incorporates both visible and underlying improvements. Notably, the Orca Performance features a hull made from Sheet Molded Compound (SMC), offering improved dampening properties for a smoother and quieter ride compared to the Orca Carbon’s carbon fiber hull. Taiga’s representative explained that the redesigned hull material has contributed to the Orca Performance’s more appealing pricing.
In addition to the hull upgrade, Taiga Motors has reworked its manufacturing strategy to enhance efficiency and enable larger-scale production. Sam Bruneau, Co-founder and CEO of Taiga Motors, detailed that this approach allowed them to optimize manufacturing for higher volumes while preserving the distinct design and performance characteristics of the Orca.
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While maintaining similar performance specifications to its carbon fiber counterpart, the Orca Performance aims to attract a broader range of consumers through its more accessible price point. The newly introduced model starts at $19,490, making it $7,000 more affordable than the Orca Carbon.
Sam Bruneau reiterated the advantages of the electric watercraft, highlighting its freedom from gasoline-related inconveniences and reduced maintenance requirements. The Orca Performance offers up to two hours of riding on a single charge, offering users a seamless and low-maintenance experience for water-based activities.
