Hodgdon Tenders Goes Electric

With stricter regulations governing emissions, and increasing consumer interest in eliminating them along with noise, it’s no wonder more owners and crews are seeking propulsion alternatives. So far, though, all the talk has been about the motherships. Hodgdon Yachts’ Hodgdon Tenders division is stepping up with all-electric versions of some of its most in-demand boats.

Specifically, the 10.5-meter (34’4”) forward-helm Venetian Limousine tender and the 12-meter (39’4”) aft-helm Venetian Limousine tender are available with electric power. Found inside tender garages on a number of high-profile yachts, the Venetian Limousine tenders feature naval architecture by Michael Peters Yacht Design and Hodgdon’s in-house team. The same design and construction approaches apply to the electric boats, with the difference being the involvement of Vita Power.

Vita Power came on the scene with its own electric powerboat last year. However, it additionally produces fully electric powertrains for the recreational-boating market. For Hodgdon Tenders, it’s supplying its V3 and V4 powertrains, delivering 220 kW (295 hp) and 440 kW (590 hp), respectively.

Recharging the power system isn’t a problem. On one hand, surplus energy from the main megayacht can handle the task. Additionally, Vita has installed dockside fast-charging systems in places like Cannes, Monaco, and St. Tropez. Further installations should arrive in other South of France locations, too. On a related side note, the charging-station housings use recycled aluminum, with a minimum of 75 percent recycled post-consumer scrap.

Audrey Hodgdon, Hodgdon’s director of sales and marketing, has noted growing market demand for zero emissions. “We’re pleased to have developed two tenders that offer benefits that can only be achieved with electric, while remaining true to the Venetian line’s style and quality,” she says.

Hodgdon Tenders currently has open build slots for the all-electric boats.

Hodgdon Electric Tenders electricsuperyachttenders.com

Michael Peters Yacht Design mpyd.net