Why solar power?
Solar power is the perfect energy source for a yacht. It brings us closer to the beauty and power of nature. Even better than sailing – as it combines the advantages of sailing and motorboating in an unprecedented way.
Capturing maximum amounts of solar energy requires a large area of photovoltaic cells to be directioned at the sun in the most effective way. The top surface area of a yacht can be perfectly suited to this need, at least when that yacht is a multi-hull designed specifically for that purpose. Just like a Silent.
Until the advent of solar sailing, large motor yachts capable of traveling across oceans in comfort had harmful effects on their environment by burning incredibly large amounts of fossil fuels. While their goal is to create an intimate connection with their owners and the seas, they unfortunately heavily pollute the very same waters they travel. Furthermore, not only do diesel engines require a lot of time-consuming maintenance, they create a lot of fumes, vibrations and noise during operation. All these characteristics disconnect the experience on board from the natural surroundings.
Solar yachting is a completely different experience. Using latest technologies in intelligent ways, it is possible to create luxury yachts with infinite range that require virtually no refueling or drive-train maintenance at all. And when cruising in complete silence, at one with the sea and its ecosystem, you do so in total comfort, experiencing the sea and sea life in all new, harmonious ways.
Our founders Michael & Heike pioneered the research for powering yachts with solar energy already during the 1990´s. By personally dedicating years into sea trials, engineering and development, they have fully optimized the solar electric drivetrain for a self-sufficient lifestyle on board. Almost three decades later, Silent leads the way for a more sensible and sustainable approach to luxury yachting through solar power.
The Solar Electric Drivetrain
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Solar panels
We use the most efficient, most advanced and highest quality modules currently available. Their arrangement, the positioning and the regulation of charge are some of the key secrets and reasons why our yachts are able to harvest incredible amounts of energy from the sun.
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Batteries
Whenever the sun is not shining or more power is needed than the solar panels produce at that time, they provide energy for the propulsion system and all household appliances. Our water cooled lithium batteries provide top notch reliability, safety and performance.
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Electric motors
All our yachts are equipped with industry leading dual electric motors. With large amounts of instantly available torque, they enable a powerful and smooth drive which is completely free of unpleasant noise, fumes and vibrations produced by regular combustion engines.
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Range extender
During longer periods of unfavorable weather conditions or whenever higher speeds are required for more than a couple of hours, an efficient diesel generator recharges the batteries. This makes sure you never run out of power, even when the sun in not shining.