Yahoo Autos This Epic 410-Foot Hybrid Catamaran Concept Uses Wing-Like Sails to Harness the Wind
Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven is channeling the spirit of the world’s largest seabird within its new hybrid catamaran concept.
The epic 410-footer, christened Albatross, has been designed to harness the wind, sun and sea in order to reduce its CO2 footprint and energy consumption by 40 percent, according to the German yard. Like its namesake, the multihull can soar across the ocean with very little (if any) environmental impact.
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Penned in partnership with Stay Sea Design, the cat is equipped with three wingsails totaling roughly 10,000 square feet that can produce 1,200 kW of power. Under sail alone, the vessel can hit around seven knots. Albatross is also fitted with more than 12,000 square feet of solar panels that generate 120 kWh and five vertical wind turbines on the upper deck that can produce a further 50 kWh in the right conditions. All the clean, green energy is stored in the onboard lithium-ion battery.
Albatross has two different operation modes to ensure it’s as fuel efficient as possible. When in anchor mode, energy is generated by six methanol fuel cells of 200 kW each. If renewable methanol is unavailable, power can be produced via one of the two installed 1,000 kW shaft generators. In sailing mode, meanwhile, propulsion is generated by four 1,800 kW engines running on conventional gas. The amount of fuel used will be reduced, however, due to the vessel’s sail power. In terms of grunt, she promises an eco speed of 12 knots and a top speed of 15 knots.
The green ethos extends to the sizable 10,000 GT interior, too. All materials used throughout Albatross will be sustainably sourced. The generous living quarters, which can accommodate up to 14 seafarers and 46 crew, offer several saloons and dining areas, a large gym and a spa. Outside, the beach club sports a sprawling infinity pool that connects two separate swim platforms.
