HikoTerra H4 Hybrid Power System
A New Generation of Marine Power
Traditional onboard power systems typically rely on generators, which bring noise, complexity, and the maintenance headaches of their additional engines and parts. The H4 Hybrid Power System takes a different approach. It is centered around high efficiency, no-maintenance energy storage and seamless power delivery that enables simple flipping of the switch rather than checking loads and firing up a genset.
“Onboard systems are becoming increasingly complex, putting greater demand on owners and operators,” said Mark Harnett, CEO of HikoTerra. “The H4 is simple, modular, and efficient, reducing reliance on generators and supporting cleaner, quieter operation. With the H4, users simply turn it on and use it, rather than managing their power supply equipment.”
For builders and installers, the benefits go even further: streamlined wiring, a modular rack design, and installation times cut by up to 50%. No exhaust runs, through-hulls, or other generator centric construction is required.
Engineering Pedigree
HikoTerra isn’t a newcomer to advanced power electronics. Founder and CTO Chris Fotherby, formerly CTO at Navman, has spent decades solving complex engineering problems that helped transform marine GPS technology. Co-founder and investor Sir Peter Maire brings a proven track record of bringing New Zealand innovations to the global stage.
How It Works
The H4 Hybrid Power System has four core components:
- A high-efficiency bi-directional inverter with 97% efficiency, solar inputs, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity for monitoring and control.
- Advanced LiFePO4 smart batteries with internal battery management system (BMS), built-in shunt, fuses, and fault-isolation features for safety. The smart battery auto-disconnects from the rack in case of fault, allowing the system to operate using remaining batteries, eliminating downtime.
- The 200A Intelligent charger accepts multiple voltages for shore power input and has a built-in isolation transformer. The system can restart completely discharged batteries from shore power or alternator. Dual 250A alternator inputs allow charging off main engines while underway.
- A modular mounting rack minimizes heavy cabling and lets builders configure the system for any space.
The result is a scalable platform with up to 30 kW inverter capacity, 12 batteries, and 96 kWh of storage. That is enough to power everything from essential onboard systems to luxury hotel loads. Depending on the application generators can be eliminated entirely or smaller gensets than would otherwise be needed can be utilized to recharge the system, reducing noise, maintenance, and cost.
Smart Design, Global Reach
At the heart of H4 is the modular rack. By integrating the backplane internally, it removes the need for many external fuses and switches, simplifying installs while improving safety and reliability. Because the battery system can isolate faults and keep operating, downtime is minimized and safety optimized.
HikoTerra is now building a global distribution and service network, with H4 systems expected to hit the market by mid-2026. Each unit will come with a two-year warranty.
Why It Matters
While the boating industry pushes toward lower emissions and less noise, the need for onboard power is increasing. Innovative onboard electrical power systems like the H4 bring plug-and-play hybrid power that’s near silent, efficient, scalable, and easy to use.
