Arcona Yachts of Sweden has launched its latest model, the Arcona 415, which the company claims is the first series-produced sailing yacht with electric propulsion as standard. The company launched its first zero-emission vessel, the Arcona 380Z, in 2015, and electric propulsion is available across the Arcona fleet as an upgrade option.
Urban Lagnéus, Arcona Yachts CEO, said, “Electric is here to stay. Our performance cruisers will always sail beautifully but in light winds, when you need to use the engine, electric propulsion is the way forward. The sleek and light hull design works extraordinarily well with electric propulsion. The ability to spend your leisure time at sea without emissions, yet gain advantages in comfort and performance, opens up a new world of opportunities for our normal usage.”
The 415 is propelled by a 15kW electric motor supplied by Oceanvolt, which the company says provides similar performance to its 50hp diesel engines. The system uses hydro regeneration via the propeller to regenerate power while sailing, storing it in the propulsion battery pack for later use. Regeneration depends on sailing speed. However, according to Lagnéus, “Our customers have seen the hydro regeneration commence when the yacht is sailing at a speed as low as 3.3kts.”