Azimut & Volvo Penta present new hybrid-electric yacht at Cannes

Seadeck 7 - Azimut and Volvo Penta Seadeck 7

Azimut and Volvo Penta will debut the world’s first yacht featuring a combination of Volvo Penta’s Integrated Propulsion System (IPS) and hybrid power at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival, which opens today (10 September).

The Seadeck 7 is installed with Volvo Penta’s helm-to-propeller hybrid-electric package, piloted for the first time in collaboration with Azimut, and is on display at the Cannes Yachting Festival from 10 to 15 September 2024.

The Seadeck 7, is the world’s first yacht to combine hybrid power with Volvo Penta IPS propulsion, based on revolutionary Volvo Penta hybrid-electric pilot technology. According to Azimut, 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 a generator.

The Seadeck 7 can cruise in pure electric mode up to a claimed 11 knots and stay at anchor with zero emissions for up to 12 hours.

Giovanna Vitelli, Chair Azimut|Benetti Group, comments: “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 a prototype stage. Boats under 24 metres are the most prevalent in our waters, therefore making a difference in this segment of vessels means making a difference for many owners. The Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package installed on the Seadeck 7 has a mode of use similar to that of cars, meaning that it shifts from electric to diesel engine based on speed. It guarantees simplicity of use, reduced consumption and CO2 emissions, and improved life on board. Everything is in place to change the rules of the game.”

Volvo Penta hybrid-electric

In this pilot project, Volvo Penta introduces a fully integrated hybrid-electric package, from helm-to-propeller, which it says ensures seamless operation and power management. This system, a pilot of Volvo Penta’s recently announced D13 IPS hybrid-electric package, is designed to make smooth transitions between power modes, enhancing performance, efficiency, and ease.

The system also features near-silent cruising at low speeds, silent nights onboard using batteries, and joystick docking in electric mode.

Compared to similarly sized traditional planing yachts with an inboard shaft line, the Seadeck 7’s onboard technologies, extensive use of carbon fibre (up to 40 per cent), and superior hull design efficiency can reduce CO2 emissions up to 40 per cent in a typical year of use. 

“Our collaboration with Azimut reflects our shared vision to push boundaries and elevate the boating experience through technological innovation and enhanced design. The Seadeck 7, equipped with our fully integrated hybrid-electric system, marks a significant step forward in marine technology. It not only showcases the future of hybridisation and electrification but also is designed to ensure an easy and intuitive experience for owners and captains. And we believe an elevated experience will be the ultimate pacemaker for the sustainability transformation,” says Johan Inden, president of the Marine Business at Volvo Penta. 

Seadeck 7

The Seadeck 7, part of Azimut’s first hybrid series, features a reinvented cockpit and sea-level outdoor lounge for enhanced water contact, the Fun Island. The Seadeck 7 has obtained the Rina Green Plus Platinum certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainable innovation and design. 

Flexible power modes for every situation

The hybrid-electric package offers four navigation options: Pure Electric mode for zero-emission sailing up to 11 knots, Hybrid Standard mode switching 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. 

A fully integrated hybrid-electric system

The Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package is fully integrated, with Volvo Penta controlling all components from helm-to- propeller. The Seadeck 7 features a twin Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1350 hybrid package, paired with a 160kW electric motor, ensuring powerful performance, manoeuvrability, and efficiency. The electric motor and diesel engine work in parallel, allowing seamless transitions and efficient operation. 

Volvo Penta and Azimut will continue to develop and optimise the hybrid-electric package on the Seadeck 7 throughout 2024. This pilot project aims to demonstrate reliability and outstanding performance as the package is targeted 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.

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