New Outboard-Powered Formula 380 SSC In Testing Phase

Though Formula Boats has been closed for five weeks in response to Indiana’s COVID-19 mandates, work that can be done outside the Decatur facility has been ongoing. Prior to current events, the company had been working on an outboard engine-powered version of its 380 Super Sport Crossover sportboat/dayboat. That model began its life as a stern-drive model, and stern drives will remain an option for the 38-footer.

Testing of the new Formula 380 SSC powered by three Mercury Racing 450R outboard engines began this week. Photos by Scott Smith courtesy/copyright Formula Boats.

This week, a limited crew from Formula’s research and design and propulsion departments returned to the factory to pick up where they left off with the 380 SSC. That led to testing on Grand Lake Saint Mary’s, a large reservoir in Ohio, last Tuesday.

Marketing manager Scott Smith was on hand to capture the process.

“We are pleased with the progress of the performance of the boat, “ he said. “Though it still needs a bit of tweaking, we think we have a winner.

“Beyond that, we are hoping to get back to work Monday, May 4, if our Governor eases Indiana’s stay-at-home order,” he added.

Though the new version of the 38-footer is being dialed in for outboards, the boat will still be offered with stern-drive propulsion.

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