VIDEO: Silent-Yachts’ solar-powered superyacht with ‘unlimited’ range

Austrian yacht builder Silent-Yachts, a global leader in solar-electric catamarans, has released a first-look video showcasing the design of its new Silent 120 Explorer superyacht.

The company says the 36-metre yacht, designed by Marco Casali of Italy’s Too-Design Studio, has an “unlimited” range on its photovoltaic cells and batteries. When built, Silent says the 120 Explorer will be the largest all-electric yacht capable of unlimited range ever built, and will become the firm’s flagship vessel.

The solar array fitted on top of the fourth deck will be capable of producing 40 kWp. The energy harnessed from the sun is then stored in advanced lithium batteries, with a maximum capacity of up to 800 kWh.

In combination with twin electric motors (340 kW each), the yacht will have an “economic” speed of 6-8 knots, a regular cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 14-16 knots.

Other smart design features include the ability of the sunroof to open and create a sun deck for guests — while keeping the yacht’s solar cells in operation.

The first hull of the 120 is currently under construction, with a target delivery date of 2024.

In September, Silent revealed its first dedicated tender design — the Silent Tender 400.