Baltic Yachts, a prominent name in luxury sailing yacht construction, is enhancing its onboard systems with the integration of Molabo’s advanced 48-volt electric motors. This strategic move aims to electrify a broad spectrum of functions, from primary propulsion and sophisticated sail handling to energy generation, all while circumventing the complexities associated with high-voltage systems.
Electrification without High-Voltage Complexity
The adoption of Molabo’s 48-volt ARIES drives allows Baltic Yachts to implement electric power across various critical onboard functions. This includes powering deck equipment, keel and rudder actuators, bow and stern thrusters, and enabling parallel hybrid setups for seamless maneuvering in harbors. By utilizing a low-voltage architecture, the company sidesteps the significant certification hurdles and technical challenges inherent in high-voltage electric systems.
This approach not only streamlines the integration process but also delivers substantial performance benefits. The 48-volt motors provide high torque output, enabling precise control over various systems. Furthermore, they contribute to a significantly quieter and smoother onboard experience, reducing noise and vibration levels that are often a concern in traditional marine applications.
Renewable Energy Generation and Optimized Sailing
Beyond powering onboard machinery, Baltic Yachts is leveraging Molabo’s electric drives for renewable energy generation. While sailing, these systems can operate as generators, converting the kinetic energy of the yacht’s movement into electrical power. This generated electricity can then be stored in the yacht’s high-capacity battery bank.
Kim Kolam, senior electrical engineer for Baltic Yachts, highlighted the advantages of this system. “While sailing, the 48-volt motors allow us to operate essential systems while minimizing engine and generator runtime, and the high-capacity battery bank provides plenty of storage to power onboard amenities while at anchor,” Kolam stated. This ensures that essential services remain operational even when the main engines are off, enhancing the overall self-sufficiency and comfort of the yacht.
In a more nuanced application, the 48-volt motors can provide very low levels of electric thrust, typically between 200 and 500 watts. This subtle power input is used to maintain momentum and optimize airflow over the sails. This capability is particularly beneficial in light wind conditions, helping to improve sail trim efficiency and assisting foiling yachts in staying ‘on step,’ thereby enhancing performance and stability.
Molabo’s Expanding Low-Voltage Portfolio
Molabo continues to innovate within the low-voltage electric drive sector. The company recently introduced a 50 kW jet drive and a 48 V serial hybrid system. This latter system is designed to work in conjunction with Fischer Panda’s AGT-series generators, a development originally undertaken for the demanding requirements of Team Malizia’s IMOCA racing program.
Adrian Patzak, COO of Molabo, commented on the expanding applicability of their technology. “The spectrum of vessels that can benefit from low-voltage electrification continues to broaden,” Patzak said. “These innovations allow builders to electrify onboard systems, support long-range or shorthanded cruising and power high-demand applications without dealing with high-voltage complexity.”
The company’s focus on 48-volt systems addresses a growing market need for electrification solutions that are both powerful and easier to implement and certify. This allows a wider range of vessel types to adopt electric propulsion and onboard systems, contributing to the overall push for more sustainable and technologically advanced marine solutions.
Baltic Yachts’s adoption of these advanced electric motors signifies a commitment to integrating cutting-edge, efficient, and user-friendly technology into its high-performance sailing yachts. The collaboration with Molabo underscores the increasing viability and appeal of 48-volt electric systems in the marine industry, promising enhanced performance, reduced environmental impact, and improved comfort for yacht owners.
Source: Molabo