YACHTS & YACHTING 123 central support element for the transparent architecture , is shaped by a technically precise design language . The basic outline , with its prism-like form , enables a width of 4.5 metres in the rear section . This creates a very spacious entrance into the luxurious lounge . The hull itself stands out with its origami lightweight structure . With the foiling technology enabling a particularly smooth traveling experience , the designers took the opportunity to replace the conventional side sections of a watercraft with large glass surfaces . Passengers therefore enjoy an extraordinary view while they glide above the water . Modern LED light strips at the bow and stern , and on the charging connection points feed into the iconic effect of THE ICON .
THE ICON : a social meeting place that ’ s at home in any port .
Angled glass doors provide access to a lounge area which , with its artistically designed furniture on a luxurious carpet , brings to mind a kaleidoscope . Every piece is formed from sections of metal sheeting whose granular surface structure reflects the sunlight onto the floor like waves on the sea .
The 360 ° rotating seats are at the core of a user-focused experience , with all essential features – including a tablet-based infotainment system – arranged within reach . With a simple twist , the seats can be re-positioned to facilitate social interaction . This creates a fine meeting hub that will feel at home in any port or harbour .
BMW interface groups nautical instruments within a digital control unit .
The craft ’ s command station is located centrally on the deck and represents a compelling proposition with its ship ’ s wheel and instruments in authentic BMW design . Taking the place of the traditional array of nautical instruments is a fresh interpretation of the BMW interface containing all important functions within a digital control unit . The intersection between human and machine comes in the form of a 32-inch touchscreen display with 6k resolution and the look and feel of the BMW iDrive control / operation system . Teaming up with BMW Operating System 8 , this unlocks a new dimension in information visualisation and digital interaction . Key functions such as range information and weather reports can be called up using voice commands .
The watercraft revealed in Cannes for the first time is not a design study or a concept , but instead a fully production-ready example of its kind boasting pioneering technology . THE ICON is underpinned by a platform concept offering comprehensive adaptability to individual wishes and needs in terms of both the emotional experience
and interior design . It is focused on modern , urban lifestyles and can be used as a means of marine transport both by luxury-conscious private customers and in the commercial sector . The craft produced on the basis of THE ICON will accelerate the cause of emission-free luxury mobility on water and open up a whole new segment . Their mission will be to inspire CO2-free water-bound mobility – without polluting the environment , without any noise , but with comfort turned up to the max .
THE ICON impresses with a powerful drive system that creates neither noise nor emissions . Foiling technology allows it to reach high speeds without generating waves or dragging out a wake behind it . Indeed , the only things THE ICON leaves behind during every journey are pleasure and joy .
Issue 59 2023 THE ART OF LUXURY