Italy's Azimut and Volvo Penta unveiled the world's first yacht combining Volvo Penta's Integrated Propulsion System (IPS) and hybrid power for the first time at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, which opens today (10 September).
The Seadeck 7 is fitted with Volvo Penta's rudder-to-paddle hybrid electric package, the first pilot project with Azimut and showcased at the Cannes Yachting Festival from 10 to 15 September 2024.
The Seadeck 7 is the first yacht in the world to combine hybrid power with Volvo Penta IPS propulsion technology, based on the revolutionary Volvo Penta Hybrid Pilot technology. Azimut reports that this marks the first time that a yacht has combined the efficiency of a diesel engine, motor and battery with the efficiency of a Volvo Penta IPS drive, enabling hybrid operation without the need for a generator.
The Seadeck 7 can cruise in all-electric mode at speeds of up to 11 knots and moor for up to 12 hours with zero emissions.
Azimut|Giovanna Vitelli, Chairman of the Benetti Group, commented: "When it comes to reducing CO2 emissions, our approach aims to produce tangible results immediately, while developing new solutions, which we have already implemented in the prototype phase. Boats under 24 metres are most prevalent in our waters, so making changes in this segment of vessels would mean an impact on shipowners in this area. The usage pattern of the Volvo Penta hybrid system installed on the Seadeck 7 is similar to that of a car, which means that it can switch from an electric engine to a diesel engine depending on the speed. The system is simple to use, reduces consumption and CO2 emissions, and improves life on board. It's all a game-changer. ”
Volvo Penta hybrid system
In this pilot project, Volvo Penta has launched a fully integrated hybrid package from rudder to propeller to ensure seamless operation and power management. The system is a pilot of Volvo Penta's recently announced D13 IPS hybrid package, designed to enable a smooth transition between power modes, improving performance, efficiency and ease of use.
The system also features near-silent cruising at low speeds, quiet nights on board with batteries, and joystick berthing in electric mode.
The Seadeck 7's onboard technology, extensive use of carbon fibre (up to 40%) and superior hull design efficiency can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40% in a typical year of use compared to a similarly sized planing yacht with an inboard shafting.
Johan Inden, President of Volvo Penta Marine, said: "Our partnership with Azimut reflects our shared vision to push the boundaries and enhance the boating experience through technological innovation and enhanced design. Equipped with our fully integrated hybrid powertrain, the Seadeck 7 marks a significant step forward in maritime technology. Not only does it showcase the future of hybrid and electrification, but it is designed to ensure a simple and intuitive experience for owners and captains. We believe that a higher experience will be the ultimate frontrunner in the sustainability transition. ”
Seadeck 7
Part of Azimut's first hybrid series, the Seadeck 7 features a redesigned cockpit and an almost sea-level outdoor seating area designed to enhance contact with the water, which Azimut calls "Fun Island". Seadeck 7 has been awarded Rina Green Plus Platinum certification, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable innovation and design.
Flexible power modes for every situation
The hybrid package offers four sailing options: pure electric mode for zero-emission sailing up to 11 knots, hybrid standard mode to switch from electric to diesel mode, hybrid boost mode for enhanced acceleration, and the upcoming crossover mode. In anchor mode, the battery supplies up to 12 hours of power to all services with silence and no CO2 emissions, eliminating the need for a conventional generator to generate electricity.
Fully integrated hybrid powertrain
The Volvo Penta Hybrid Package is fully integrated, with Volvo Penta controlling everything from the rudder to the propeller. The Seadeck 7 is powered by two Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350 hybrid powertrains paired with a 160kW electric engine to ensure powerful performance, manoeuvrability and efficiency. The electric engine and diesel engine work in parallel for a seamless transition and efficient operation.
Volvo Penta and Azimut will continue to develop and optimize the Seadeck 7's hybrid powertrain in 2024. The pilot project aims to demonstrate reliability and outstanding performance, as the goal is to make the system an integral part of the Azimut Seadeck range, while providing a hybrid yacht experience with market definition. The Seadeck range promises an unrivalled experience at sea, prioritizing sustainability without sacrificing luxury or performance.
Azimut Yachts is a brand of the Azimut Benetti Group in Italy. Azimut has the Atlantis, Magellan flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, offering yachts ranging from 10 to 40 meters.