Sunpower Yachts International got its start seven years ago exclusively to construct solar-electric yachts. The Australian-based builder has been expanding into international markets and recently established a foothold on U.S. soil. It’s collaborating with United Yacht Sales to be its official representative throughout North America.
Sunpower Yachts is the brainchild of Grant Hudson (above), who has a background in electric engine energy-management systems. He also grew up boating in his native Australia. His boating experience influenced his decision to establish the boatbuilding business. In fact, in 2018, he was out on the water with his young son when he inhaled the fumes from a twin-engine boat. A friend happened to have a solar-electric yacht, and Hudson decided designing and building similar boats was sensible for the future of yachting. In 2020, Sunpower Yachts launched its first project, a 44-foot (13-meter) catamaran. The occasion marked the launch of the first solar-electric catamaran in Australia, too.
Since that time, the shipyard has opened further facilities in Europe and Thailand. Additionally, Sunpower Yachts has focused on designing and promoting larger models. They include the Sunpower Alva 90, for instance, a high-performance catamaran. Hull number one is in the background of the photo above. Anticipated for launch later this year, she should produce enough energy from upper-deck solar panels to power every onboard appliance. This includes high-consumption systems like air conditioning. It extends to creature comforts like lighting and the televisions, as well as necessities like the refrigerator and stove.
Sunpower also has drawing-board models like the Sunpower Solar E Hydro model (above). Not yet under construction, she’s a solar-electric-hydrogen proposal, with a single hull.
By aligning with United Yacht Sales, the shipyard intends to make communicating with customers in the biggest boating market simpler. Of course, pre-sales guidance and after-sales service are part of the offerings as well.
Sunpower Yachts International sunpoweryachts.com.au
United Yacht Sales unitedyacht.com
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