Southern Wind Hybrid 108 is a brand new sloop with diesel-electric propulsion designed by BAE Systems with significant built-in regeneration capabilityCape Town\u2019s Southern Wind shipyard has unveiled more details of its new 108ft hybrid sloop the Southern Wind Hybrid 108, which is already well into the moulding phase.
\nPenned by Nauta and Farr Yacht Design, it is the brand\u2019s first project to be designed from the off with diesel-electric propulsion, being supplied by BAE Systems.
\nIdentical to the system found in electric city buses, the BAE product should save the boat up to 30% in fuel consumption. It comes with regeneration capability that means the boat could arrive after an ocean crossing with its fuel tanks still topped up.
\n\u201cThe total weight depends on the battery capacity that the owner chooses to have, but if you compare like for like, it\u2019s not much heavier than a normal diesel installation,\u201d says Southern Wind technical manager Yann Dabbadie.
\nFull carbon build, an increased sailplan and a 6.2m lifting keel should keep the boat sailing even in light conditions. \u201cThe production of SW108 will begin with a well-canvassed, very powerful arrangement for exceptional performance in light winds, but also up through the wind range,\u201d says Farr\u2019s Jim Schmicker.
\nWe\u2019ve also been given a first glimpse of the Nauta interior, which resembles that of the boat\u2019s smaller sister Taniwha. There\u2019s space for three double cabins, plus a studio that can be converted into a cabin. It leaves room for an L-shaped social area with seating, a dining area and a TV lounge.
\nThe yacht has been designed in Southern\u2019s \u2018smart custom\u2019 programme, meaning the technical platform and hull shape will be reused for further 108ft boats. Deck plans, interior configuration, styling and outfitting are entirely at the owner\u2019s discretion.
\nSouthern Wind Hybrid 108 specifications:
\nLOA: 32.77m 107ft 6in
\nLWL:29.89m 98ft 1in
\nBeam: 7.51m 24ft 8in
\nDraft: 3.65m-5.60m 12ft 0in-18ft 4in
\nDisplacement: 79.6 tonnes
\nBuilder: sws-yachts.com<\/p>\n
If you enjoyed this\u2026.<\/p>\n
Yachting World is the world\u2019s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams.<\/p>\n
Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.<\/p>\n
The post First look: Southern Wind Hybrid 108 appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Southern Wind Hybrid 108 is a brand new sloop with diesel-electric propulsion designed by BAE Systems with significant built-in regeneration capabilityCape Town\u2019s Southern Wind shipyard has unveiled more details of its new 108ft hybrid sloop the Southern Wind Hybrid 108, … <\/p>\n