The April/May 2024 issue of Professional BoatBuilder magazine takes an in-depth look at the cutting-edge hybrid marine-propulsion engine developed by e-Motion. This innovative system, born from the vision of e-Motion founder Michele Maggi, is set to power Xquisite Yachts’ upcoming Xquisite Sixty Solar Power model, offering catamaran enthusiasts and professionals a versatile and efficient propulsion solution.
The e-Motion hybrid propulsion system, detailed in the Professional BoatBuilder feature, offers seven operating modes designed to suit various operational needs and preferences for superyacht installations, featuring both serial and parallel hybrid features:
- Conventional Diesel Propulsion Mode:In this mode, the diesel engine powers the yacht directly, with the engine connected to the propeller shaft via a conventional transmission. This setup is traditional and straightforward, providing reliable propulsion using diesel power alone.
- Electric Propulsion Mode:The yacht can be propelled using electric power, with the electric machine connected to the propeller shaft through the same transmission. This mode requires an additional clutch between the diesel engine and the electric machine, enabling electric-only propulsion, which is quieter and potentially more efficient for short distances or slow cruising.
- Generator Mode (Under Way):While the yacht is moving, the diesel engine can drive the propeller for propulsion and simultaneously have the electric machine operate as a generator. This dual function supports charging batteries or powering onboard systems without the need for separate generator units.
- Generator Mode (At Anchor):With the yacht stationary, the diesel engine drives the electric machine acting as a variable-speed generator, but with the propeller shaft disconnected to prevent propulsion. This mode is ideal for powering onboard systems or charging batteries without leaving a carbon footprint associated with propulsion.
- Boost Mode:This mode combines the diesel engine’s power with the electric machine, adding extra power to the propeller shaft. It’s useful for quickly increasing speed, such as when a planing hull needs to overcome the initial resistance to reach cruising speed, or to enhance performance without upsizing the diesel engine in displacement hulls.
- Combined Conventional and Parallel Propulsion Mode:For twin-engine setups, one diesel engine operates in conventional mode while simultaneously powering its electric machine as a generator. The electricity generated can then power the other electric machine for propulsion, with its diesel engine turned off. This setup offers a blend of diesel and electric propulsion, optimizing efficiency and reducing emissions.
- Serial Hybrid Propulsion Mode:In this advanced mode, standalone generators power the electric machines for propulsion, bypassing the diesel engines directly connected to the propellers. This configuration allows for efficient electrical propulsion, with the diesel generators operating at optimal conditions to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
The e-Motion hybrid system’s clutches enable smooth transitions between operating modes, ensuring that Sixty Solar Power adapts to changing conditions and preferences with unparalleled flexibility and efficiency and performance . These clutches, shown in Photo, are a critical component of the hybrid system, allowing the diesel engines and electric motors to be engaged or disengaged as needed.
A critical feature of the e-Motion clutch is that it fails closed, connecting the diesel engine to the driveline. Opening the clutch enables electric-only operation. Reliably transitioning between modes while under way relies on proprietary e-Motion software.
The e-Motion hybrid system features high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, a powerful inverter, and an intelligent system controller that optimizes energy storage, conversion, and distribution. These advanced components work together to ensure that the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power can operate efficiently and effectively in any situation.
The Professional BoatBuilder feature provides a detailed look at the advanced components that make up the e-Motion hybrid system, including the high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, powerful inverter, and intelligent system controller. These components are the heart of the hybrid propulsion system, working together to optimize energy storage, conversion, and distribution.
The lithium-ion batteries, as shown in Photo, provide a reliable and long-lasting energy storage solution for the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power. These batteries are designed to withstand the rigors of marine use, with robust construction and advanced safety features to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The high capacity of these batteries allows the boat to operate for extended periods without the need for constant charging, providing a truly remarkable level of energy independence.
The inverter, shown in Photo, is responsible for converting the DC power generated by the diesel engines, electric motors, and batteries into the AC power required by the boat’s electrical systems. This powerful component ensures that the Sixty Solar Power can operate all of her onboard systems, from navigation and communication equipment to lighting and appliances, with reliable and efficient power. The inverter plays a critical role in ensuring that the boat can operate smoothly and effectively in any situation.
The intelligent system controller, shown in Photo, is the brain of the e-Motion hybrid system, constantly monitoring and optimizing the performance of all components to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability. This advanced control system uses sophisticated algorithms and sensors to monitor the status of the diesel engines, electric motors, batteries, and other key components, making real-time adjustments to optimize performance based on the chosen operating mode and environmental conditions. By constantly monitoring and adjusting the system, the controller helps to maximize fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and extend the life of the boat’s components, ensuring a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.
User-friendly controller displays provide real-time monitoring and manual control over the hybrid propulsion system, allowing users to easily adjust settings and monitor performance while on the water. These displays provide the crew with the information and control they need to optimize the boat’s performance and efficiency.
The controller displays, shown in Photos, provide real-time monitoring of key system parameters, such as battery charge levels, power output, fuel consumption, and operating mode, allowing informed decisions for Xquisite Sixty Solar Power owners. They allow the crew to quickly and easily switch between operating modes, adjust system settings, and monitor performance, ensuring that the boat is always operating at its optimal level.
In addition to providing real-time monitoring and control, the controller displays also offer advanced diagnostic and troubleshooting capabilities. The displays can alert the crew to potential issues or malfunctions, providing clear and concise instructions for resolving the problem. This helps to ensure that the Sixty Solar Power can operate safely and reliably, even in the event of a system malfunction or failure.
The Sixty Solar Power, a luxury catamaran from the Multi-Award-Winner Xquisite Yachts, is set to integrate e-Motion’s hybrid propulsion technology, marking a significant milestone in the world of sustainable and high-performance cruising. The Professional BoatBuilder feature provides a detailed look at how the e-Motion system is integrated, highlighting the careful design and engineering that went into creating this groundbreaking vessel.
The integration of the e-Motion system into the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power is a testament to the close collaboration between Xquisite Yachts and e-Motion. The careful planning and attention to detail that went into creating a seamless integration between the two systems ensure that the hybrid propulsion system works in harmony with the rest of the boat’s advanced features and amenities.
In addition to the e-Motion hybrid propulsion system, the Sixty Solar Power boasts an array of features that elevate the sailing experience to new heights. The catamaran’s sleek and modern design, coupled with her spacious and luxurious interior, offers passengers a truly unparalleled level of comfort and style. From the well-appointed cabins and en-suite bathrooms to the expansive deck spaces and panoramic views, every aspect of the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power has been carefully crafted to provide the ultimate in luxury and relaxation.
The advanced solar technology further enhances Sixty Solar Power’s sustainability and efficiency. She features an array of strategically placed high-efficiency solar panels, allowing her to generate a significant portion of her own power and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This innovative feature not only contributes to a cleaner and greener sailing experience but also provides a higher level of energy independence on the seas.
By combining the cutting-edge e-Motion hybrid propulsion system with advanced solar technology and luxurious amenities, the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power represents a new era in sustainable and high-performance cruising. This groundbreaking catamaran is set to appeal to discerning sailors who demand the very best in terms of performance, comfort, and environmental responsibility, making her a true game-changer in the world of luxury yachting.
The e-Motion hybrid propulsion system is just one of the hundreds of examples of innovative technologies that are featured in the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power, shaping the future of sustainable yachting.
The success of the e-Motion hybrid engine and its integration into the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power is a testament to the vision and dedication of Michele Maggi team at e-Motion, as well as the forward-thinking approach of Tamas Hamor‘s Xquisite Yachts and Dixon Yacht Design. By working together to create a truly groundbreaking vessel that combines performance, luxury, and sustainability, these companies are setting a new standard for the yachting industry and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
For an in-depth exploration of e-Motion’s hybrid marine-propulsion engine, check out the feature in Professional BoatBuilder’s April/May 2024 issue. Discover the NMMA Innovation Award-winning technology on e-Motion’s website and dive deeper into the Xquisite Sixty Solar Power model.
About Xquisite Yachts
Xquisite Yachts is a luxury yacht brand known for its innovative designs, comfort, and sailing performance. The company produces a limited number of multi-award-winning catamarans each year using the latest technology. Customers can purchase finished yachts or place a custom order, with the option to try before they buy through the company’s charter program.
About e-Motion
The e-Motion hybrid system will enhance the quality of life on board and the resale value of the vessel. In addition to drastically reducing fuel consumption and maintenance costs, more importantly, owners will diminish their carbon footprint and CO2 emissions becoming eco-conscious individuals.
Today, e-Motion offers a full range of hybrid systems for Power and Sail yachts.
About Professional BoatBuilder
Professional BoatBuilder magazine is written and edited for boatbuilders, repairers, designers, and surveyors. Published six times a year, by WoodenBoat Publications, Inc., it focuses on materials, design, and construction techniques and repair solutions chosen by marine professionals. Regular technical articles provide detailed, real-world examples to improve the efficiency and quality of their work.