⚡️HYBRID & ELECTRIC SAILING: Is It Still Too Early?

Summary

This video explores the innovative hybrid and electric motor systems for boats, specifically designed for catamarans. It discusses how the hybrid system integrates a diesel engine with an electric motor to provide efficient power and silent motoring, especially in zero-emission zones. The technology allows for automatic switching between diesel and electric power, with smart features to optimize battery charging. The video highlights the growing interest in hybrid systems from major companies like Yanmar and Volvo Penta, the potential for regeneration technology, and the importance of realistic expectations for hybrid boat performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hybrid marine propulsion system combines an electric motor and generator between the engine and gearbox.
• 😀 The system generates 48V DC and provides 15KW (20 horsepower) of power, helping to charge the batteries while the diesel engine runs.
• 😀 When the batteries are full, the system automatically shuts down without interfering with the engine's operation.
• 😀 The system can switch off the diesel engine and power the boat with the electric motor when entering zero-emission zones or marinas.
• 😀 The hybrid system is designed for boatbuilders to install with minimal modifications, such as extending the engine bed.
• 😀 Retrofits for older boats are possible but more complex, requiring cutting into the boat to extend the engine bed.
• 😀 The hybrid system is intended for short, quiet journeys and not for long-distance electric-only cruising.
• 😀 Charging the batteries is highly efficient, and the system can charge a 30KW battery to 50% in less than an hour.
• 😀 Regeneration capabilities, allowing the propeller to generate power while sailing, are expected to be released later this year.
• 😀 Large companies like Yanmar, Volvo Penta, and Didas are entering the hybrid marine market, improving global availability and service networks.
• 😀 The current focus is on maximizing efficiency rather than completely eliminating diesel engines, with future advancements in battery and solar technology likely to make all-electric cruising more feasible.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the hybrid electric motor/generator system discussed in the video?

The system serves to charge the boat's battery bank while the diesel engine is running, allowing for quieter, electric-only operation when needed and improving overall efficiency.

How does the hybrid system handle battery charging and when does it stop charging?

The system generates 48 volts DC while the diesel engine is running, charging the batteries. Once the batteries are full, the system automatically shuts down and stops charging to avoid overcharging.

What happens if the electric motor is needed for propulsion while the diesel engine is running?

If full throttle is required for propulsion, the system temporarily disables the electric motor to allow all power from the diesel engine to go to the propulsion system. The system will recalibrate once the engine stabilizes.

What is the recommended usage for the hybrid system, especially regarding electric-only propulsion?

The system is designed primarily for short, quiet electric-only operations, such as entering and exiting harbors or zero-emission zones. It's not intended for long-term electric motoring, which requires a larger battery capacity.

Can the hybrid system be retrofitted into existing boats?

While the system can be retrofitted in some cases, it’s generally designed for easy installation in new builds. Retrofitting requires modifications to the boat’s engine bed, making it more challenging but not impossible for skilled individuals.

How does the system integrate with the boat’s chart plotter and other tech?

The hybrid system integrates with the boat's navigation system through the partnership with Navico Group. It can automatically detect when the boat enters a zero-emission zone and switch to electric power for silent operation.

How does the system perform when fully charged, and how quickly does it charge the batteries?

Once fully charged, the system ensures that the batteries are topped up in under an hour. The system is efficient enough to provide fast charging, especially on a larger catamaran with a dual-engine setup.

What is the expected impact of larger battery banks on the system's performance?

With a large battery bank, the hybrid system allows for extended electric operation, though it's not designed for hours of continuous electric motoring. It provides redundancy, enabling the use of electric propulsion for short trips or in specific zones.

How are larger marine engine manufacturers like Yanmar and Volvo Penta contributing to hybrid propulsion technology?

Big marine engine manufacturers, including Yanmar and Volvo Penta, are entering the hybrid and electric propulsion market by releasing new hybrid systems, thus driving competition and improving the availability of service networks, parts, and technology.

What challenges still exist with the implementation of hybrid marine propulsion systems?

The main challenges are related to the limitations of current battery and solar technologies, which prevent the full elimination of diesel engines. Additionally, there is a lack of widespread availability of efficient propellers that can support regeneration.