Yanmar Marine International (YMI), based in the Netherlands, has officially launched its first electric propulsion product, the E-Saildrive, aimed at facilitating a seamless transition to emission-free sailing. The E-Saildrive range made its global debut at the prestigious Cannes Yachting Festival and Newport International Boat Show.
Designed for easy installation, the E-Saildrive utilizes a plug-and-play platform that integrates a gear, motor, motor controller, and cooling system, promoting a switch to 100% electric boating. Available in three models—the SDe7, SDe10, and SDe15—these units deliver up to 15 kW of power, making them suitable for sailboats under 40 feet, depending on the specific application and displacement. Importantly, the E-Saildrive serves as a drop-in replacement for Yanmar YM engines, requiring no hull modifications. This allows boatbuilders to offer these systems interchangeably or introduce an SDe refit without significant alterations.
The E-Saildrive features a vibrant 4.3-inch optically bonded TFT display, which boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating and an anti-fog coating. Control heads are available in side-mount or top-mount configurations, showcasing a modern alloy design.
Floris Lettinga, director of sales and marketing at Yanmar Marine International, emphasized the significance of the E-Saildrive launch in reducing sailing’s environmental impact. “Our integrated system is packed with innovative features to provide boaters an easy switch to 100% emissions-free sailing,” he stated. Lettinga also expressed confidence in the engineering behind the product, assuring that YMI will collaborate with its network of dealers and distributors to offer comprehensive technical support worldwide.
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