Customers want more fuel-efficient yachts. Simultaneously, they want more environmentally friendly yachts. Sanlorenzo is the latest builder to say its buyers are conveying this message over and over. As a result, the builder has created a hybrid version of its SL106 megayacht series.
In fact, hull number one is already on the water. She premiered in May at a client-focused event in Portofino, Italy, up the coast from Sanlorenzo’s headquarters. As much as she is a new offering, the SL106 Hybrid has the same profile and layout options as her traditionally powered sisters. This means there’s a shaded flying bridge and accommodations for eight in the owners’ party plus four to five crewmembers. Buyers can tailor the interior design as they so wish, too.
As for the differences, they come in fuel consumption at lower speeds, no-emission modes, and more. There are five operational modes all together:
- Diesel-electric propulsion. A well-proven technology, this allows near-silent operations, up to 9½ knots. Sanlorenzo employs MTU engines.
- Zero-emission hotel mode. Solely relying on her lithium-ion batteries, the Sanlorenzo SL106 Hybrid still lets owners and guests enjoy air conditioning and all other comforts while at anchor. Sanlorenzo says the batteries can supply electricity for more than six hours.
- Shaft alternator power generation. This mode, considered the economical navigation mode, involves one engine. Specifically, it’s efficient to 10 knots, Sanlorenzo claims, consuming a reported 13 gph (50 lph). It still allows using both propellers, which supply power back to the electric motor between them and the diesel engine. This electric motor in turn can power the yacht’s electrical needs.
- Direct diesel-engine propulsion. Since buyers still want options they’re accustomed to, this is traditional twin-engine propulsion. It permits the same cruising speed that the standard SL106 series offers. Sanlorenzo says it’s in the mid- to high-20-knot range.
- Booster power mode. For those must-move moments, you get 1½ knots more of top speed (normally around 30 knots), and quicker acceleration. The diesel engines and electric motors all come into play for this.
To create the SL106 Hybrid, Sanlorenzo partnered with two companies: Diesel Center and MTU. Headquartered in Italy, Diesel Center specializes in integrating propulsion systems, including electric ones, aboard yachts and megayachts. It claims to have played a role in more than 100,000 hybrid yachts prior to 2010.
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