Baran Akalin Design has announced a new, 67-metre explorer model designed to be the first "fuel free superyacht" of its size in the world. The project is known as Silencieux and already has a prospective owner. It will be developed under a new Italian brand that is yet to be announced.
"[The potential owner] wants to see the system working first, so a one-on-one demo is currently being prepared," Akalin told BOAT International. "If the system works completely, the first order will be received."
All information on this "pure energy" system is currently under wraps, though the studio explained that it was a project five years in the making and would receive certification by the close of 2024. The technology removes the need for fuel tanks and would also be able to "fit quite comfortably" into a standard diesel electric yacht of a similar size.
In true explorer fashion, Silencieux has been designed with a 170-square-metre garage that can accommodate a 12-metre tender, a submarine, Jet Skis and several toys. All toys and service craft would be fully electric considering the "infinite supply of electricity" being produced on board.
The model forms part of a planned series in collaboration with Reanimer Yacht Works. Baran Akalin Design is responsible for exterior styling, layout and interiors.
Accommodation is across six guest cabins with further quarters for 16 crew. There will also be a dedicated owner's deck with a helipad, an open lounge, a gym, an office space and a 87-square-metre main saloon.
The flybridge deck is also worth noting, offering close to 360-degree views, a small bar, two lounge spaces (one in the bow) and a terrace. An elevator, a sauna and a 155-square-metre beach club with folding balconies complete the list of amenities.
Propulsion is provided by two 1800kW permanent magnet azimut thrusters for a cruising speed of 14 to 16 knots and a maximum speed of 17 to 19 knots.
Silencieux will also be equipped with four Torque generators producing 5.2Mw of power which will allow the yacht "to make effortless and emission-less voyages". A range of "at least" one circumnavigation and an endurance of four to five months completes the yacht's technical specifications.
A 60-metre catamaran that abides by the same "fuel free" principle is also in the works.