122 YACHTS & YACHTING longer range is dominated by models with combustion engines . THE ICON redefines this relationship between the dimensions , top speed and range of an electrically powered watercraft .
Making this possible is an innovation from yacht racing : hydrofoils . These reduce the energy requirement by up to 80 per cent compared with a conventional hull . The foiling technology – whereby the craft rides on wing structures below the water level , while the hull floats above the surface of the water – also provides a higher level of travelling comfort and higher speeds .
A pair of 100 kW electric motors convert the 240 kWh of energy supplied by six batteries from the BMW i3 into an eye-catching range of more than 50 nautical miles ( approx . 100 km ). The craft can deliver an operating speed of 24 knots , while its maximum speed is 30 knots ( 55 km / h ). Spurred on by its innovative drive system and foiling technology , THE ICON makes almost silent progress , without vibrations or shocks and without sending out waves .
Ensuring a similarly impressive onboard soundscape , meanwhile , is the Dolby Atmos system , with its ability to deliver superb audio quality . When it came to developing the sound concept – comprising the drive system note and pleasant , intuitive function tones – for the job at hand , BMW turned to double Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer . The revolutionary acoustic creations conjured by the Hollywood composer soundtrack a new era in the enjoyment of sustainable travel on water .
THE ICON : unparalleled innovative power also reflected in its design .
The design team had the task of translating the unique concept of THE ICON into an iconic experience – from its initial visual impact from the outside to the view out from the inside . The body of the watercraft , which is made up of a very flat hull and a
THE ART OF LUXURY Issue 59 2023