At the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, Azimut and Volvo Penta unveiled the world’s first yacht to combine Volvo Penta IPS with hybrid power.
The new “Seadeck 7” is equipped with Volvo Penta’s helm-to-propeller hybrid-electric package, piloted for the first time in collaboration with Azimut. According to the companies, this marks the first time a yacht combines diesel engines, electric motors, and batteries with the efficiency of Volvo Penta IPS drives, allowing hybrid operation without the need for a generator. The “Seadeck 7” can cruise in pure electric mode at speeds up to 11 knots and stay at anchor with zero emissions for up to 12 hours, significantly enhancing onboard comfort and sustainability.
“When it comes to reducing CO2 emissions, our approach is aimed at generating tangible results now, also by developing new solutions that we are already implementing at the prototype stage. Boats under 24 meters are the most prevalent in our waters, so making a difference in this segment means making a difference for many owners. The Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package installed on the ‘Seadeck 7’ operates similarly to hybrid cars, shifting from electric to diesel engine based on speed. It guarantees ease of use, reduced consumption and CO2 emissions, and improved life on board. Everything is in place to change the rules of the game,” said Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of the Azimut|Benetti Group.
Volvo Penta recently introduced the D13 IPS hybrid electric package
In this pilot project, Volvo Penta introduces a fully integrated hybrid-electric package, from helm to propeller, ensuring seamless operation and power management on the “Seadeck 7.” This system, a pilot of Volvo Penta’s recently announced D13 IPS hybrid-electric package, guarantees smooth transitions between power modes, enhancing performance, efficiency, and ease, according to the company. Features include near-silent cruising at low speeds, silent nights onboard using batteries, and Joystick Docking in Electric Mode for smooth docking and departure. The system also facilitates access to emission-free zones, allowing closer encounters with nature.
Compared to traditional planing yachts with an inboard shaft line of similar size, the “Seadeck 7’s” technological package, extensive use of carbon fiber (up to 40%), and superior hull design efficiency can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40% in a typical year of use.
“Seadeck 7” is part of Azimut’s first hybrid yacht series
The “Seadeck 7,” part of Azimut’s first hybrid yacht series, features a reinvented cockpit and sea-level outdoor lounge for enhanced water contact, known as the Fun Island. By combining weight reduction, a carbon fiber hull, deck, and superstructure, with Volvo Penta’s hybrid-electric yacht system, the “Seadeck 7” enhances both comfort and space. The yacht has obtained the RINA Green Plus Platinum certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainable innovation and design.
The hybrid-electric package offers four navigation options: Pure Electric mode for zero-emission sailing up to 11 knots, Hybrid Standard mode that switches from electric to diesel, Hybrid Boost mode for enhanced acceleration, and the upcoming Cross-over mode. In Hotel mode, the batteries power all services for up to 12 hours in silence and without CO2 emissions, eliminating the need for a traditional generator.
Volvo Penta and Azimut will continue to develop and optimize the hybrid-electric package on the “Seadeck 7” throughout 2024. This pilot project aims to demonstrate reliability and outstanding performance as the package is intended to become integral to the Azimut Seadeck series, offering a market-defining hybrid-electric experience.
The “Seadeck 7” is available for pre-order, with delivery starting in 2026. She is on display at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 10th to 15th, 2024.
