Soel Yachts has announced the release of its latest model, the Soel Senses 48, a 48ft (14.5m) solar electric catamaran.
“We’ve developed a number of electric boats for our commercial resort clients, but recently we’ve noticed a real hunger in the market for a private leisure model, so the energy autonomous Soel Senses 48 is our answer to this,” explained Joep Koster, managing partner of Soel Yachts.
The standout feature of the 48 is its 2.7kWp solar array that forms the roof of the vessel. There are several options available when it comes to motors, battery and shore charging systems. The standard motor package consists of a pair of 40kW units, while the performance model sees power upped to 100kW per motor. The battery can be specified as either 71kWh or 142kWh, with both motors and batteries supplied by Netherlands-based Naval DC. The lower-powered version has a cruise speed of 10kts with a maximum of 12kts, and the performance version is able to top 18kts. Range with the 142kW pack is 56 nautical miles.
According to Linda Brembs, managing director at Soel Yachts, there appears to be a growing demand within the yacht market for environmentally friendly vessels. “The call from high-value individuals who prefer a quieter and more sustainable way to cruise is unquestionably getting louder,” she noted.