Adler Suprema 76's hybrid propulsion system cross Atlantic at 8 knots without refueling
by Peter A. Janssen 27 Jan 2018 14:09 PST
Adler Suprema 76 © Cruising Odyssey
In a major move forward for hybrid technology, the Adler Suprema 76 now has a trans-Atlantic range of 3,400nm on a single tank of fuel at eight knots, using its own propulsion system combining electric, hybrid or twin diesel power.
Adler's new HMS (Hybrid Marine Solutions) lets the captain choose among the three systems, but its default mode is fully automatic, and the boat simply accelerates through the most efficient system at the time.
The new carbon-fiber, semi-displacement Suprema 76 is the first yacht to be built with HMS. The Swiss-based company, which has a history in the aviation industry, used a team of aviation, automotive and marine experts to develop the new hybrid technology over a period of four years. They used extensive fluid dynamics simulations and extensive tank testing in Vienna.
The system consists of two 1,150-hp Cat C18 diesels; two ATE 100kW e-Units, and one 170kW LiPo battery. The e-units, which are a combustion engine coupled to an electro-motor/generator combination, control the transitions among the three propulsion modes. They are installed between the Cats and the gearbox, separated by clutches, and can be used as generators for fast charging while the props are not rotating; it takes less than an hour to fully recharge the hybrid batteries. The system also lets the Cats work in traditional twin diesel mode with the e-Units shut off.
Adler says the hybrid system is from 30 to 50 percent more fuel efficient than standard diesel propulsion. At eight knots, the boat uses just 3 gph, while at 14 knots it uses 26 gph. Under electric power alone, the boat can cruise at 11 knots, while under diesel power it can hit 30 knots. If you just want to anchor out and enjoy the peace and quiet, the LiPo battery can power a full day's worth of amenities on a single charge, without turning on the engines or a generator. The boat carries 1,373 gallons of fuel.
Designed by Nuvolai-Lenard and built in Italy, the Adler Suprema is meant to make life comfortable on board. There's under-floor heating in the salon and the cabin heads, and coolers are built into the armrests in the cockpit. Aft, the swim platform can be lowered into the water, while forward there's a Jacuzzi on the deck. And new glass technology provides more privacy to the interior while in port.
Here's a look at the HMS technology in the graphic below, or go to adleryacht.com
This article has been provided by the courtesy of cruisingodyssey.com