Electric propulsion gains ground as ABB powers two future Oceanco superyachts
Concept illustration of a superyacht powered by Azipod propulsion. Image courtesy of ABB
An ongoing collaboration between ABB and Dutch yacht builder Oceanco highlights that the shift to electric propulsion is taking place with superyacht specification. ABB is set to supply an integrated electric power and propulsion package for two superyachts currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2031 and 2032.
ABB says yacht owners are increasingly specifying electric propulsion – for its abilities to reduce noise and vibration, enhance manoeuvrability, and lower emissions, while utilising alternative energy sources. As such, it’s offering to Oceanco integrates Azipod electric propulsion with Onboard DC Grid, PEMS power and energy management system.
Batteries and energy management at the core of efficiency
The package will use battery energy storage to optimise the energy flow between all vessel systems based on operating conditions for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
“At Oceanco, we are committed to providing yacht owners with ultimate efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. We recognise that the power plant principle based on DC integration and electric propulsion, as well-established technologies, is critical to this objective,” says Marcel Onkenhout, CEO, Oceanco.
Preparing superyachts for hybrid and alternative fuels
Onboard DC Grid will look at efficient power distribution, prepare the vessel for alternative fuels and hybrid configurations and enable its energy storage system to offer different functionalities, such as peak shaving and load optimisation – designed to optimise generator running hours, fuel consumption, and associated emissions.
Each vessel will feature dual 4.2-megawatt Azipod propulsors with Ice Class 1C for smooth, stable operations in various conditions, including light ice. With its electric motor housed inside the pod eliminating mechanical transmission losses, the gearless Azipod propulsion is said to offer smoother and quieter operations while also improving fuel efficiency over conventional shaft line propulsion.
“ABB’s integrated power and propulsion solutions are proven to deliver exceptional performance across the board, while the company’s collaborative approach and technical expertise make it an excellent project partner,” continues Onkenhout.
Remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance for future fleets
ABB’s package also includes the ABB Ability Remote Diagnostic System for Marine (RDS), which offers owners real-time monitoring, proactive troubleshooting, and predictive maintenance capabilities.
“This collaboration further strengthens our long-standing relationship with our trusted partner Oceanco”, says Rune Braastad, president, ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “It also reaffirms our commitment to supporting the yacht industry’s journey toward leaner and cleaner operations. The two forthcoming vessels perfectly demonstrate the close interplay between luxury and environmental responsibility, and we are looking forward to seeing them in operation.”
Oceanco will be joining a specialist panel discussion about post-build and refit warranty works later this month. It’ll be sharing first-hand experience of how warranty issues are managed, where disputes most commonly arise, and how risk can be mitigated through clearer contractual and operational frameworks at the Superyacht UK’s technical seminar 2026.
