Just as the evolution of electric cars has tended to start at the high end of the auto market, a new concept for a hybrid electric “super yacht” has been unveiled in the Netherlands this week – a 110-metre, solar-powered luxury vessel that “reimagines sustainable seafaring.”
The fabulously fancy yacht concept, named Kiwa after the Māori guardian of the ocean, comes from New Zealand born, Amsterdam-based designer and passionate boatie, Isaac Burrough.
The sustainable part comes from what can be expected to be 200 square metres of “sleek solar panels” which will be combined with battery storage help to power a hybrid propulsion system that can “enable Electric-Only mode to enter remote zones without pollution or enjoy al fresco dining sans generator.”
The exact origin of the boat’s hybrid motor technology is not specified in the release, but Burrough has previously worked with an outfit called Lateral Naval Architects, whose E-Hybrid platform was used for one of his previous super-yacht design concepts, called Inception.
According to the Kiwa media release, the aim is for the yacht’s electric capacity to grow from several hours “to unlimited, emission-free motoring,” as solar and battery technology develops.
In the meantime, the Kiwa’s design has focused on “structurally lowering fuel consumption” via a low volume to length ratio, to maximise energy-efficiency and “anticipate the tech advancements of tomorrow.”
In every other department, the Kiwa is just your average everyday luxury yacht: expansive deck areas; diverse lounge areas that create private sanctuaries in shade or sun; an elegantly terraced swim platform, evoking a beach sloping toward the sea; sun deck jacuzzi with a panoramic view; glass-bottom pool…
“But the best view on board can be found in the spa area where semi-submerged pools allow guests to enjoy scenery both above and below the water surface.” Oh, and it can accommodate a helicopter visit, too.
“The intention for Kiwa was to design a yacht that is both modern and elegant,” said Burrough in the media release this week.
“Her sleek silhouette combined with curvaceous surfaces give grace despite her exploration capabilities. A yacht that will look sophisticated whether cruising the Mediterranean or the Arctic.”
You can see more of the vessel’s specifications below. Happy sails.
Sophie is editor of One Step Off The Grid and deputy editor of its sister site, Renew Economy. Sophie has been writing about clean energy for more than a decade.