Azimut Seadeck 7: Hybrid system with four propulsion modes debuts – VIDEO

Barcelona (Spain) – Azimut Seadeck 7 is the shipyard's first yacht to combine Volvo Penta IPS propulsion with a diesel-electric hybrid system. The result of a collaboration between the Piedmontese shipyard and the Swedish engine manufacturer, this project marks a concrete step in the energy transition for planing vessels under 24 meters.

The 21,88-meter Seadeck 7 is part of Azimut's new hybrid series and will be available from 2026. The engine room features the Volvo Penta Hybrid-Electric package, a helm-to-propeller solution that integrates diesel and electric engines and a 385 kW/h battery pack in a system managed by Volvo Penta EVC (Electronic Vessel Control). The heart of the installation is a pair of D13 IPS 1350 Hybrid engines, each paired with a 160 kW electric motor. The IPS transmissions ensure hydrodynamic efficiency and maneuverability, while power management is handled by a control logic that allows for automatic switching between the various operating modes.

The system offers four operating modes, designed to optimize performance, fuel consumption, and emissions depending on operating conditions. The first is Pure Electric Mode, which allows zero-emission cruising up to 11 knots. In this configuration, the diesel engines remain off and all propulsion is handled by the electric motors powered by the onboard batteries. It is ideal for accessing restricted-emission areas and for cruising at anchor or in protected marine areas. Hybrid Standard Mode is the default mode during variable-speed cruising. The system automatically switches between electric and diesel power depending on speed and power requirements. At low speeds, electric propulsion is preferred, while above a certain threshold, the internal combustion engines take over.

The Hybrid Boost Mode variant is designed to offer quicker acceleration or for situations requiring greater thrust. In this case, diesel and electric engines work together, providing additional thrust when planing or during critical maneuvers. The Crossover Mode, still under development, will be a mixed-operation mode, with the ability to simultaneously manage different energy sources based on operating profiles and the owner's preferences. Additionally, Hotel Mode is available, in which onboard services are powered solely by the batteries for up to 12 hours, without the need to turn on the generators. This option allows for complete silence and zero emissions at anchor.

All components, from the motors to the batteries, from the joysticks to the transmissions, are integrated and governed by the EVC system, which coordinates the operating modes, energy balance, and safety systems. The system includes the Glass Cockpit System, which displays battery status, operating modes, and navigation parameters in real time.

The Joystick docking and Joystick steering functions are active in both Pure Electric and Hybrid modes, as is the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), which automatically maintains the vessel's position and trim even in the presence of current or wind. The batteries are charged while underway using the diesel engines or from the dock using the standard CCS2 interface. Charging cycles are managed automatically, with the option of programming them from the dashboard display.

Thanks to the combination of Volvo Penta's hybrid package, the use of up to 40% carbon in the hull, deck, and superstructure, and a new hull design, the Seadeck 7 is capable of reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared to a similarly sized traditional planing shaft-driven yacht. The optimized hull and IPS transmissions help increase hydrodynamic efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, especially at medium speeds. When powered by electric power, perceived noise on board is dramatically reduced, and the lack of vibration improves the quality of life on board.

We tested it in Barcelona, ​​where the Azimut Seadeck 7 proved very responsive to maneuvers, with a flybridge that's enjoyable even at high speeds, allowing for conversations protected from the wind. We reached a top speed of over 28 knots, but the ideal cruising speed is 23–24 knots. At the stern, we found the "fun island," with folding bulwarks, for living in close contact with the sea.

Azimut Seadeck 7 has achieved RINA Green Plus Platinum certification, the highest environmental sustainability award for pleasure craft, confirming the project's innovative value. The collaboration between Volvo Penta and the Azimut|Benetti R&D department aims to further develop the operating logic, energy management systems, and human-machine interface, making the transition between navigation modes increasingly fluid and intuitive.

Azimut Seadeck 7 Technical Data Sheet

Length ft: 21,7 m

Maximum width: 5,48 m

Full load displacement: 45,5 t

Engines: 2 x Volvo Penta D13 IPS 30 1200

2 x Volvo Penta D13 IPS 30 1350

Maximum speed: 31 knots

Cruising speed: 23 knots

Fuel tanks: 3.700 l

Fresh water tanks: 1000 l

Cabins: 4 + 1 crew

Bathrooms: 3 + 1 crew

Construction materials: Carbon fibre + GRP

Exterior design: Alberto Mancini

Interior design: Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez

Hull design: Azimut|Benetti Group R&D in collaboration with Names

CE Category: B

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