Sunseeker will launch its first hybrid production boat in 2020
Sunseeker and MTU have announced a collaboration that will see Sunseeker’s first production hybrid launch next year.
There are no details at this point as to what the boat will look like but judging by the rendering (above) the new model will slot into the Poole yard’s Yacht range.
The news comes as Sunseeker teases its Project 8X concept, which will be revealed at the Düsseldorf Boat Show.
The integrated hybrid propulsion system comprises a pair of 12-cylinder MTU 2000 diesel engines with 1,947hp each, generators, electric propulsion modules, transmission, batteries and a control and monitoring system.
The inline hybrid propulsion system developed by MTU
Sean Robertson, sales director at Sunseeker says: “The way owners are using their boats continues to evolve with efficiency and noise reduction now as important as on-board features and volume, which all contribute to their ultimate purchase decision.
“This latest hybrid technology will feature in a brand new model launching in 2020 and will allow owners a choice of multiple operating modes from all-electric with zero emissions through to use of the twin 12-cylinder diesel engines delivering efficient class-leading performance.”
The yacht will be provided with six different operating modes, including the automated “smart hybrid” and “charge hybrid” modes, which enable all power sources to be used as required.
In “electric mode” the yacht propulsion and on-board power can be supplied continuously by the generators for optimum fuel consumption and comfort on-board for extended passages.
In “silent mode”, which uses power solely from the batteries, up to 40 minutes of propulsion and 120 minutes of domestic power are available on battery power alone without any noise or emissions.
Knut Müller, head of marine and government business at MTU, says: “The combination of diesel engines and electric motors, in addition to batteries and their variable areas of application, offer yacht owners significant benefits.
“Silent cruising, combined with low vibration and emission levels, offer tremendous gains in terms of on-board comfort.”
