Sanlorenzo to launch zero-carbon superyacht in 2027

Sanlorenzo took advantage of boot Düsseldorf to present its three-stage “Road to 2030” strategy, which will see the shipyard launch the first net-zero emission superyacht in 2027.

What are Sanlorenzo’s forecasts and strategy?

The plan, presented by Sanlorenzo CEO Massimo Perotti at the Blue Innovation Dock, involves significant investment in research and development over the next five years, and begins with the construction of a 50Steel. The 50-meter model will be the first of three key launches, and will showcase the first practical use of methanol and fuel cell technology on board a superyacht. Work on the technology is already underway under the leadership of strategic partner Siemens, and the model will be launched in 2025 with fuel cells powering the hotel load only.

The next step in Sanlorenzo’s strategy will be to increase the technology’s power output to a point where it can be used to partially power the motors of a new hybrid propulsion system, in addition to powering the hotel’s load. Scheduled for launch in 2026, this will make low-speed, long-range navigation possible in carbon-neutral conditions.

By 2027, the Group hopes to introduce a superyacht powered entirely by green methanol, using a combination of fuel cells and internal combustion engines instead of traditional diesel engines or a hybrid system.

A promising partnership already in place

The Italian shipyard had previously signed an agreement with Siemens Energy for the exclusive development of a carbon-neutral fuel cell system to power the hotel load on yachts from 24 to 80 meters in length. The test phase for the first fuel cell modules is also underway, with further tests for the methanol/water supply and energy management, condensation and ventilation systems soon to follow now that preliminary designs have been approved for the 50Steel.

Sanlorenzo is also responsible for the BHG and BGM65HH projects underway within the group’s Bluegame division. With a launch date later this year, the BGH project has been chosen by the New York Yacht Club as a “chase boat” to accompany American Magic in the 37th America’s Cup in 2024.

The outboard will reach 50 knots on foils powered by a zero-emission hydrogen propulsion system. This unique opportunity is remarkable because it effectively allows Sanlorenzo to test the technology in smaller models before integrating it into larger designs.

The Group also mentioned Bluegame’s recent partnership with Volvo Penta, which will combine the latter’s new IPS pilot hybrid propulsion system with hydrogen fuel cells developed as part of the BGH project. The cutting-edge technology will be showcased in the BGM65HH hydrogen hybrid model, scheduled for launch in 2026.