Rolls-Royce, through its Power Systems division, and Azimut Benetti have strengthened their partnership to offer advanced propulsion solutions on Azimut's Grande Series yachts up to 30 meters. The partnership is based on the use of mtu 2000 series engines, combined with sophisticated automation and propulsion systems, to improve efficiency, maneuverability and reduce pollutant emissions. The project marks an important milestone in the integration of hybrid propulsion technologies, a booming sector in the marine industry.
Rolls-Royce propulsion systems offer efficiency gains of 15% over conventional systems. This enables yachts to consume less fuel, or to sail faster with the same fuel consumption. This technology, already pioneered by Azimut Benetti, continues to win over customers thanks to its eco-friendly performance, particularly thanks to the possibility of integrating electric motors for use in hybrid mode. In this way, yachts can operate in electric mode when manoeuvring in port, or remain stable thanks to dynamic propulsion - a major advantage for shipowners keen to reduce their environmental impact.
The first model to benefit from this collaboration will be the Azimut Grande 30M, equipped with mtu 12V2000M96 engines rated at 1,342 kW, coupled with new-generation ZF pods. These configurations, offering several power options up to 1,472 kW, represent the most powerful engine-pod combination on the yacht market.
The integration of these advanced propulsion technologies opens up new design and layout possibilities for the Grande series. The Azimut Benetti Group is taking advantage of the system's compactness to rethink the layout of its yachts and create unprecedented living spaces on three decks. This advance is particularly valuable for demanding owners looking for both avant-garde design and more environmentally-friendly sailing. Thanks to weight reduction, innovative naval architecture and more efficient pods, these yachts are part of a drive to reduce emissions while maintaining top-quality performance.
