Towards Cleaner Propulsion

For several years now, we’ve seen hybrid-electric engines trying to establish a presence aboard our cruising multihulls, with mixed levels of success. Attempts to integrate them are becoming more and more precise and efficient, in order to satisfy different sailing programs. Day cruising, coastal cruising and long-distance exploration are all concerned - but boat builders and equipment manufacturers are also anticipating future regulations, which could be much stricter in terms of carbon emission tolerances. Series or parallel connection, shaft drive, sail drive or pod - there’s no shortage of choice, but hybrid-electric propulsion is still encountering strong resistance from the tried-and-tested diesel option.