Luxury sailing-yacht builder Southern Wind has selected BAE Systems to provide the electric-hybrid power and propulsion system for a new high-performance superyacht. Best known as a top defense contractor, BAE Systems is also a leader in electric propulsion in the bus and marine sectors.
The company will supply and integrate its next-generation system on the Southern Wind’s SW96 Nyumba, the first marine vessel to benefit from the company’s newest propulsion technology. The BAE HybriGen power and propulsion system is engineered to reduce emissions and fuel consumption for a quiet, clean, and efficient experience on the superyacht, which is designed for both long-range cruising and regatta racing. This same technology is designed to also be applicable for Southern Wind’s newly launched project, the SW108 Hybrid yacht.
The SW108 Hybrid is the first in the new era of what Southern Wind calls “smart custom” sailing yachts featuring a diesel-electric solution. Engineered by the Southern Wind Shipyard and designed by Nauta Design and Farr Yacht Design, the new model opens the world of green sailing for customers and increases the shipyard offerings of 30- to 40-m composite sailing yachts.
The SW108’s hybrid propulsion system is designed to IMO Tier III compliance. The older diesel-electric system is based on a combination of two highly efficient generators with a high-voltage battery bank and electric propulsion motor.
The system allows for more efficient consumption of fossil fuels while achieving a lower level of harmful emissions. Hybrid propulsion offers extended hours of operation with zero emissions in silent mode.
On the SW96 Nyumba, BAE Systems will also integrate a “HydroGeneration” mode, meaning the propeller and motor will act as a generator when the vessel is sailing. That mode will provide vessel auxiliary power and recharge the energy storage for a longer zero-emissions experience.
“BAE Systems’ next-generation technology represents a significant investment in our electric power and propulsion applications for the marine market,” said Steve Trichka, Vice President and General Manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “This electric propulsion technology will ensure that the SW96 Nyumba operates with the highest levels of electrical efficiency to maximize the zero-emissions benefit of our HydroGeneration mode.”
The HybriGen system will include an electric motor, two variable-speed generators, a lithium-ion energy storage system, and vessel auxiliary power with shore power charging. This technology leverages fewer, lighter, and more compact components with increased electrical efficiency and high power density. The modular and scalable design results in a flexible system tailored to each vessel’s specific power and propulsion requirements.
The technology builds on BAE Systems’ 25 years of experience developing and integrating more than 14,000 power and propulsion systems in transit and marine markets around the world. Work on the program will be conducted at the company’s facility in Endicott, NY.
