Sailing into the Future: Arc’s Electrifying Journey at CES 2025
When I ventured to CES 2025, braving the brisk chill of Lake Mead in January wasn’t on my itinerary. Yet, the allure of testing Arc’s new sport boat was irresistible. Crafted by a promising Los Angeles startup, this boat promised more than just a ride—it offered an experience. The Arc Sport felt like piloting a hefty jet ski, its weight lending a sense of stability that was both reassuring and exhilarating. Unlike many electric vehicles that seem bogged down by their mass, this boat thrived with its substantial heft.
Arc’s rapid ascent in the marine industry is nothing short of remarkable. Founded by former SpaceX engineers, the startup surfaced in 2021 with significant backing from Andreessen Horowitz and Lowercarbon Capital. By early 2023, Arc had already launched its first $300,000 Arc One boats and secured an additional $70 million to develop the $258,000 Arc Sport. Delivering their first Sport boat by late 2024 underscores their impressive pace.
“The Arc One for us was that [Tesla] Roadster. First step was, let’s go manufacture this boat. Let’s do it at a small scale, and let’s learn from what it’s like to have these boats in the field with customers,” explained Mitch Lee, founder and CEO of Arc.
{TechCrunch Interview, November 2024}
On arrival at Lake Mead, I found Lee shivering but enthusiastic—a testament to his passion for showcasing what Arc Sport could achieve. The boat’s design impressed before we even set sail; its polished finish stood out amidst CES’s usual prototype chaos. A Tesla-esque horizontal touchscreen paired with dynamic software enhanced its modern appeal.
- The Sport operates quieter than traditional gas boats; conversations were unimpeded by engine noise.
- No gas fumes and sophisticated over-the-air software updates contribute to an elevated boating experience.
- Twin thrusters simplify docking maneuvers while a solid canopy shields against the elements.
Operating the Sport was intuitive; mastering water navigation is key. Even amid Lake Mead’s choppy waters, controlling the boat was straightforward. With a simple push of the throttle knob, 500 horsepower unleashed thrilling speed and agility, making each turn an exhilarating challenge.
As we headed back to shore, Lake Mead’s receding waters painted a sobering backdrop—a stark reminder of environmental challenges facing recreational boating. The lake now holds just 27% of its capacity due to prolonged droughts and human impact (NASA). This issue directly touches Arc’s target market—boating enthusiasts on Lake Mead have faced multiple ramp closures due to dwindling water levels (National Park Service).
Mitch Lee envisions a future where every watercraft is electric—a vision extending beyond leisure boats to possibly include government and defense sectors. “We can’t afford to get distracted too early,” Lee mentioned about future expansions. The groundwork laid with the Arc One has facilitated rapid development of subsequent models like the Arc Sport.
In conclusion, my time with Arc at CES was as enlightening as it was exhilarating. With their innovative approach and rapid progress, it’s clear that Arc is navigating a promising course towards transforming the future of watercraft technology.
