What is commonplace in large-scale shipping could now also provide more travelling comfort under power on yachts: diesel-electric propulsion. A generator unit powered by an encapsulated motor replaces the classic marine diesel engine, while an electric motor converts the energy into propulsion.
A prototype from the Paderbron-based company Fischer-Panda has proven that the innovative concept is fully ready for series production. The company is currently converting a standard Bavaria 49 with a Volvo Penta D2-55 engine to diesel-electric propulsion.
The advantages are convincing, as YACHT found out during test runs. Thanks to its improved efficiency, the prototype, a 35-foot motorsailer, consumes less than half as much fuel as a conventional marine diesel engine. Noise levels in the saloon and cockpit are minimised thanks to the engine encapsulation.
Another plus: as the propeller is driven directly by an electric motor mounted behind the propeller and can be rotated through 180 degrees, owners also get a transverse thruster "for free" with the system.
Full details of the concept and its opportunities can be found in issue 9-2004 (now on newsstands).
Jochen Rieker
Herausgeber YACHT
