Italian manufacturer Azimut Yachts has announced a new series of hybrid motoryachts designed to reduce C02 emissions by up to 40%.
The new line, known as Seadeck, will serve as Azimut's most amibitious effort to meet the International Marine Association's C02 emissions target for 2030. Over half of Azimut's fleet offering are now classified as 'Low Emission Yachts.'
The Seadeck series will offer models over 60 feet in length and will be designed around Volvo Penta's new hybrid propulsion system. The first two models will be the Seadeck 6 (56'7" LOA), and the Seadeck 7 (71'9" LOA).
Some of hull components will be designed to minimize weight and increase strength, therefore improving overall efficiency, including the use of a 40% carbon fiber hull. Other implementations for improved economy include a high-efficiency planing hull and a unique battery back system.
The Volvo Penta hybrid IPS propulsion system allows yachts to operate in 'low' and 'zero' emission zones. The electric-only mode also runs at reduced noise levels, has fewer vibrations, and lower running costs.
“A hybrid provides a flexible solution, one that maintains the high efficiency offered by the IPS system and adds the ability to run in zero emission environments,” says Niklas Thulin, Volvo Penta’s Director of Electromobility.
“With full torque from the electric motor available instantly, the boat will maintain the responsiveness and controllability that IPS is famous for in electric-only mode, as well as offering the ability to run at 10 to 12 knots.”
In a company statement, Giovanna Vitelli, chair of Azimut-Benetti Group, said: "Seadeck is a new starting point for future generations. We wish, once again, to chart a course that will be an inspiration for the entire industry, so that the theme of respect for the environment is interpreted – as it is for Seadeck – with a concrete approach made up of investment, technological research, and the courage to introduce a new lifestyle that embraces the sea."
Renowned designer Alberto Mancini will oversee Seadeck's model development, alongside Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez. Mancini added: “We wanted to create a boat that puts maximum emphasis on the concept of openness and transparency, and that also represented a radical change in terms of the relationship with nature. With the introduction of the Fun Island, Seadeck is actually a floating island where owners can get away from their daily routine and live in total contact with the sea."
The 'Fun Island' refers to a new stern terrace design that will be incorporated on the new Seadeck 6 and Seadeck 7 models. A Seadeck 8 model is also part of future plans for the series.
All told, the new Seadeck design and features in combination are expected to deliver a "40 per cent reduction in CO2 emission over a year of average use, both when cruising and at anchor, compared to a traditional flybridge boat of similar dimensions," according to the company.
The new yachts are expected to be officially unveiled at boot Düsseldorf in January 2024.
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