UK-based studio Dixon Yacht Design has unveiled OXO: a new 48.3-metre motor yacht concept born from the desire to "rethink efficiency through a sailing yacht lens", according to studio partner Anders Berg.
Developed in collaboration with British interior design firm Design Unlimited, the concept has been developed as a "next-generation" motor yacht, utilising Dixon Yacht Design's experience in designing efficient and comfortable bluewater sailing yachts, including the 45-metre Mirasol and the 40-metre Antares.
A long and slender hull form characterises the concept – chosen as such to lower the wave-making resistance – with long lines of dark glazing and a near-plumb bow, resulting in a contemporary and dynamic profile. Cascading decks culminate at the stern, which, according to the studio, has been CFD (computer fluid dynamic) optimised to ensure reduced transom immersion and associated drag.
Aside from hydrodynamic efficiency, a key feature of OXO is its onboard energy generation. As such, over 100 square metres of solar panels have been integrated on board, expected to deliver between 70 and 90 kWh of energy per day in the Mediterranean and therefore contribute substantially to the overall hotel load.
A statement from the studio explained: "From the outset, solar energy has been treated as a core design driver rather than an add-on — fully integrated into the architecture, power management strategy and visual language of the yacht."
The 499GT interiors on board OXO are bright and sophisticated, described as combining understated luxury and comfort with practicality. Organic forms, bespoke details and a handpicked selection of natural materials have been chosen to create a warm and welcoming environment, with the extensive glazing across OXO's profile maximising natural light.
Throughout, the layout has been developed around "modern life", including accommodation across a five-cabin layout and five additional cabins for crew.
Renders reveal key features on board, including a broad aft deck lounge with fold-down bulwarks, a circular dip pool, a sheltered bar and seating area and steps leading to a spacious swim platform. A Jacuzzi can be found on the foredeck, flanked by sunpads and sofa seating, while another sunpad and secondary helm station crown the yacht.
Berg concluded: "More than a concept, OXO represents our vision for the next generation of motor yachts: lighter, smarter and designed to tread more gently on the oceans we all love."
Last year, the studio lifted the lid on a 39.9-metre catamaran concept called Project Dragonfly, designed for owners "passionate about sailing sustainably".
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