Azimut and Volvo Penta together to advance electrification in the marine industry

At the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, Azimut and Volvo Penta are unveiling the world’s first yacht to combine Volvo Penta IPS with hybrid power. The new Seadeck 7 is equipped with Volvo Penta’s helm-to-propeller hybrid-electric package, piloted for the first time in collaboration with Azimut.

The Azimut Seadeck 7 is the world’s first yacht to combine hybrid power with Volvo Penta IPS propulsion, based on revolutionary Volvo Penta hybrid-electric pilot technology. This marks the first time a yacht combines diesel engines, electric motors, and batteries with the efficiency of Volvo Penta IPS drives, allowing hybrid operation without a generator. The Seadeck 7 can cruise in pure electric mode up to 11 knots and stay at anchor with zero emissions for up to 12 hours, with the aim to significantly enhance onboard comfort and sustainability.

“When it comes to reducing CO₂ emissions, our approach is aimed at generating tangible results now, also by developing new solutions that we are already implementing at a prototype stage. Boats under 24 meters are the most prevalent in our waters, therefore making a difference in this segment of vessels means making a difference for many owners. The Volvo Penta hybrid-electric package installed on the Seadeck 7 has a mode of use similar to that of cars, meaning that it shifts from electric to diesel engine based on speed. It guarantees simplicity of use, reduced consumption and CO₂ emissions, and improved life on board. Everything is in place to change the rules of the game,” said Giovanna Vitelli, Chair Azimut|Benetti Group.

Azimut and Volvo Penta: the seamless hybrid-electric experience

In this pilot project, Volvo Penta introduces a fully integrated hybrid-electric package, from helm-to-propeller, ensuring seamless operation and power management on the Seadeck 7. This system, a pilot of Volvo Penta’s recently announced D13 IPS hybrid-electric package, guarantees smooth transitions between power modes, enhancing performance, efficiency, and ease. Features include near-silent cruising at low speeds, silent nights onboard using batteries, and Joystick Docking in Electric Mode for smooth docking and departure. The system also facilitates access to emission-free zones, allowing closer encounters with nature.

“Our collaboration with Azimut reflects our shared vision to push boundaries and elevate the boating experience through technological innovation and enhanced design. The Seadeck 7, equipped with our fully integrated hybrid-electric system, marks a significant step forward in marine technology. It not only showcases the future of hybridization and electrification but also is designed to ensure an easy and intuitive experience for owners and captains. And we believe an elevated experience will be the ultimate pacemaker for the sustainability transformation,” said Johan Inden, President of the Marine Business at Volvo Penta.