Silent Yachts has found success in offering on solar- and electric-powered catamarans. That success has led to yet another new model, the Silent VisionF 82. She’s in build in partnership with VisionF Yachts in Turkey.
Silent Yachts already has construction sites in Thailand (for its production models) and Italy. According to founder and CEO Michael Köhler, collaborating with VisionF Yachts allows the latter to learn about electric propulsion. Silent Yachts uses solar and electric systems aboard all of its projects. Specifically, Köhler says, Silent Yachts is borrowing a page from Tesla. Eight years ago, the electric-auto maker opened up its patents for other carmakers to use. “We are very keen to share information about our propulsion systems to help guide the yachting industry towards a more sustainable future,” he explains.
Under construction for completion late this year, the Silent VisionF 82 has an aluminum hull and superstructure. She also has a hybrid propulsion system. Silent Yachts can build full electric models, too, but chose diesel-electric hybrid for this hull for a simple reason. Not every buyer is fully comfortable going entirely electric. The hybrid system offers three operational modes as well. Electric mode is ideal for slow-speed maneuvering, for instance. Hybrid mode means the system automatically shifts the load to the electric motor, the diesel engine, or a combination. The choice depends on the Silent VisionF 82’s specific speed and battery state at the time. Finally, the third mode combines the two motors for more speed when wanted—hopping over to the Bahamas, for example.
Regardless of propulsion system, Silent Yachts incorporates solar panels feeding a battery bank, to power the lighting, air conditioning, and other creature comforts. Those creature comforts come in a variety of layouts as well. Since the megayacht is a catamaran, you can have three guest staterooms and a master in the two hulls. Or, opt for two guest staterooms and a dedicated office. Either way, the master (above) occupies nearly 194 square feet (18 square meters). Equally noteworthy, the main saloon is a comfortable 581 square feet (54 square meters). Add in a sunken lounge on the foredeck (something the Silent 80 doesn’t have), alfresco dining on the aft deck, and a flying bridge, and the Silent VisionF 82 has additionally attractive amenities.
Silent Yachts silent-yachts.com
VisionF Yachts visionf.com
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