At the Cannes Boat Show in early September, Azimut and Volvo introduced the all-new diesel-electric propulsion system that the engine manufacturer has been working on for years and which Azimut has selected to power its brand-new 72-foot Seadeck 7.
Unlike current marine hybrid propulsion systems, the new Volvo engines operate in much the same way automotive hybrids. The engines switch from diesel to electric as the loads change. When you accelerate, the diesels kick in and when you level off at cruising speed and further acceleration is not needed the diesels switch off and the electric motors take over while running on battery power.
The new Volvo hybrids merge seamlessly with the feature rich IPS systems and have been designed to work with Volvo D13 engines, allowing users to operate joystick driving and docking, low speed handling, dynamic positioning and assisted docking in both pure electric and hybrid modes.
The system will propel the Seadeck 7 at 11 knots in electric mode and the boat carries enough battery reserve to operate all hotel functions for 12 hours while at anchor or moored without the need to run generators.
To achieve the efficiency and up to 40 percent reduction in carbon output that the new Volvo hybrids can provide, Azimut created the Seadeck 7 with a new more streamlined hull and built the hull and deck with carbon-epoxy to reduce weight.
Unlike previous Azimuts which are heavier and more luxurious, the new 72-footer has simpler accommodations and accoutrements to keep weight down and to emphasize the yacht’s eco-friendly design style. The builder also is using recycled materials in their carpets and furniture fabrics.
But beyond the Seadeck 7’s eco-conscious design, the yachts is also seriously fun with a top speed of 40 knots and the spacious after deck areas the builder calls their “Fun Island” because of its proximity to the water, dinghies and water toys.
The prototype of the Seadeck 7 with the Volvo hybrid drive system was shown for the first time in Cannes but you will have to wait till 2025 for a production-built model to be delivered.
