Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye Electric Jet-Ski was Born to be a Bond Gadget

Much like motorcycles, jet skis really haven’t ever changed much in terms of their basic design. It’s a matter of function over form—there’s just not that much you can change without completely overhauling how the machine works. But that doesn’t mean there’s no room for improvement when it comes to the look of the jet ski. Tarform has released an updated look for the personal watercraft, and if it brings to mind a manta ray when you first see it, that’s exactly the response they were hoping for.

RELATED: Tarform’s ‘Motorcycle of Tomorrow’ is an All-Electric Cafe Racer

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

The Tarform Raye watercraft builds on the jet ski platform with copious amounts of either carbon fibre or biodegradable flax seed weave-reinforced compost. Much like the marine inspiration, this ray has a swooping form with gentle curves and slopes that are meant to allow it to glide through the water.

The hood and handlebars are combined together, sleekly flowing back to the seat to create a single shape. The handlebars feature an integrated infotainment system for that extra touch of technology. Tarform plans to power the Raye with an electric powertrain that it’s borrowing from its electric motorcycle.

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

“Translating the experience of an electric motorcycle onto the water was the most natural extension to our vehicle lineup,” Taras Kravtchouk, founder and head of design at Tarfom explains. “The Tarform Raye is an electric jet ski that explores the biomorphic design and is inspired by the manta ray. We are excited to share that these are the first lines of the craft as we expand our design ethos into other realms.”

The electric water jet propulsion system promises top speeds of 50 miles per hour—perhaps not as fast as other jet skis, but still plenty fast enough to have an exciting ride. The electric jet ski is planned to be compatible with Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. According to the company, there will be two versions: a 70 horsepower Raye that can run for up to one hour on a charge, and a 120 horsepower model that will go for double the time.

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

“The origin of Tarform was a combination of passion and purpose. I spent my career in the fields of technology and design while restoring vintage motorcycles on the weekends in a shop in Brooklyn,” Kravtchouk continued. “These 50-year-old machines had a sense of personality and spirit that today’s technological machines were lacking. The intention was to revive the spirit of craftsmanship, artistry, and dedication to every detail. To create a new breed of non-polluting vehicles that provide an unforgettable experience and beauty.”

At this time, the Raye is just a concept, but Tanform is promising production to start up soon. The sleek watercraft will have a starting price of around $68,000.

Check it out

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

Tarform Raye electric jet-ski | Image: Tarform

STAFF WRITER

Mr Mark Jessen

Mark Jessen studied English at Brigham Young University, completing a double emphasis in creative writing and professional writing/editing. After graduating, Mark went to work for a small publisher as their book editor. After a brief time as a freelance writer, Mark entered the corporate world as a copywriter. These days, his hours are spent mostly in proofing and editing, though he continues to create content for a wide variety of projects. In 2017, Mark completed UCLA's Creative Writing Certification. A prolific writer, Mark has over 20 years of experience in journalism.