Few people consider power boating an extremely fuel-efficient pastime. Thanks to new hybrid yacht technology developed by Greenline Yachts, there’s a whole new paradigm to consider.
For thousands of years, sailors have relied upon a natural element, the wind, to propel them to new adventures. Across the bay, or across an ocean. From a powerboat perspective, Greenline’s hybrid yacht technology now permits powerboaters to make at least partial use of a natural element as well: sunlight.
Just What is a Hybrid Yacht?
Most people are familiar with the “hybrid” concept used by some best-selling automobiles. In the automotive application, the gasoline engine engages above certain speeds, but at low speed a hybrid car relies on battery power. Most hybrid cars recharge the battery from the main electrical system when the internal combustion engine is running.
Hybrid yachts take the concept a step further. The high-capacity lithium batteries used in hybrid yachts are rechargeable from a shore power pedestal. Additionally, the diesel engine recharges the batteries when engaged. And there’s more. Greenline’s hybrid yachts are rechargeable by sunlight! The system is so efficient that a Greenline Yacht’s solar roof can supply enough power that normal operation of every onboard system is feasible if anchored out for a typical weekend.
Greenline hybrid yachts utilize an electric motor that is entirely in-line with and located between the internal combustion engine and the transmission. There are no extra props or shafts required.
Owners can choose to run entirely on electrical power if content to travel at more sedate speeds between ports. Zero emission boating is an achievable reality. Most of the Greenline Hybrid Yachts will make 4 -6 knots without ever starting the diesel engine. The all-electric range of a Greenline hybrid yacht is typically 20 nautical miles (nm), but some owners are doubling up on battery capacity and should be able to achieve an all-electric range of about 40 nm with their hybrid yachts.
Charging Options Maximize Versatility
Connected to shore power at the dock, Greenline Hybrid Yachts recharge their lithium-polymer batteries while simultaneously powering appliances, climate control, and entertainment devices. Shorepower routes through an inverter/charger to an “energy management” system specifically designed for charging the large battery bank.
When the internal combustion engine is running, the electric drive motor automatically becomes a generator and recharges the battery bank. In most cases a fully discharged battery bank can be restored to full charge in as little as 2 -2.5 hours underway.
Whether at the dock, underway, or at anchor the highly efficient “solar roof” converts light into electrical energy and assists with recharging. The solar panels feature forced-air cooling to ensure longevity and efficiency.
Hybrid Yachts Deliver a Superior Ownership Experience
Cruisers making an extremely early morning departure from marina normally suffer a little embarrassment in the process. The diesel engine cranks, and then rumbles and clanks while it slowly comes up to operating temperature. A cloud of exhaust collects around the transom. Lights begin appearing in the windows of neighboring boats. The noisy departure has awakened the neighbors. A Greenline hybrid yacht can leave the dock under whisper-quiet electrical propulsion, and without creating a disruptive wake.
Hybrid technology permits boaters to enjoy all available comforts and conveniences at anchor, free of any need to run a noisy generator and draw the “stink eye” from annoyed neighbors. Owners of hybrid yachts are not forced to choose between having a good time and being a good neighbor.
Hybrid systems provide the redundancy of a second propulsion system, increasing safety and reliability. Should the internal combustion engine encounter a problem, a hybrid yacht can switch to the all-electric mode and power in. Towboat not necessarily required. The older concept systems relying upon two gasoline or diesel engines can provide redundancy, of course, but problems with fuel or control systems will sometimes shut down both internal combustion power plants. Owners of Greenline Hybrid yachts can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that they have two complete power systems, operable either separately or in combination, rather than just two engines remaining part of a single system.
A hybrid yacht is an excellent platform for salmon fishing. Diesel engines do not run efficiently at slow speeds or when they are not under load. Diesel boats often idle at speeds which are too fast for trolling purposes. In those cases, shifting in and out of gear to slow down trolling speed can stress the transmission as well as the engine. Electric power makes ever so much sense in such a situation. Anglers in the cockpit will hear the cry of the gulls and the gentle wash of waves against the hull, rather than the rumble of an idling diesel.
Hybrid Yachts Are Durable, and Require Less Maintenance
The life cycle of an electric drive motor can easily be ten times the life cycle of an internal combustion engine. Greenline hybrid yachts allow an owner to run the diesel engines fewer hours, as well as avoid the slow speed, lightly loaded conditions which can prematurely wear out a diesel. Fewer engine hours equate to fewer oil changes and less frequent replacement of wear-susceptible parts and components.
The lithium-polymer batteries used in Greenline hybrid yachts are seven times lighter than lead-acid batteries of the same capacity. Additionally, lithium-polymer batteries are only 1/3 the size of an equivalent lead acid battery. Rated for thousands of charge and discharge cycles, the batteries used by Greenline feature an estimated life expectancy of more than ten years.
There’s a Hybrid Yacht for Almost Everyone
Greenline offers hybrid yachts in nine different models between 33 and 68 feet in length. There are, hardtops. Coupes, and flybridge styles from which to choose. Greenline additionally builds a series of “OceanClass” vessels in 58, 68, and 110-foot lengths.
