solar-powered ZEN50 catamaran integrates automated wingsail for zero-emission voyages

solar-electric ZEN50 yacht

ZEN50 is an emission-free sailing yacht that combines a huge fully-automated wingsail and a solar roof, making it completely energy autonomous. Designed from scratch by acclaimed naval architect Julien Mélot, this full carbon catamaran is equipped with luxurious features, such as an electric tender, dive compressor, satellite internet, and a solar roof that doubles as a spacious upper deck to enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets. ZEN Yacht company claims it is the world’s first series production catamaran fitted with an electric wingsail. The yacht’s high-capacity battery powers a silent electric propulsion engine, allowing it to reach 14 knots and maintain high speeds without compromising safety and comfort.

all images by ZEN Yachts

zero-emission meets high comfort and performance

ZEN Yachts‘ electric catamaran is a technological breakthrough that takes the yachting industry one step further, showing the potential of sustainability in this field. ZEN50 is offered with or without wingsail and comes in three different versions: Racer, Cruiser and Explorer, each fitting to the use and owner’s profile. Developed by Ayro, the revolutionary, fully automated wingsail can be added as a range and speed extender. The two parts of the wingsail can be hoisted and lowered independently only with the touch of a button.

With a weight of 16 tons and 17,000 W of maximum solar power, the ratio of the ZEN50 is at over 1 kW per displaced ton of water or beyond 1:1, which defeats any other blue water CE Cat A yacht in this size range. The sharp and slender hulls of the ZEN50 have been designed for utmost efficiency, with minimal energy consumption at a speed range of 6 to 10 knots. Their reverse bows cut through the water, and their curvature is reminiscent of graceful dolphin bodies. These hulls are built with the best available composites: Carbon fibre and Corecell™, for ultimate performance.

ZEN50 can sail at 4 knots running solely on solar power

no emissions, low cost

Zen50 provides a series of luxury amenities. The scheme accommodates three dining areas for over ten people, one professional galley, a saloon, and two wet kitchens, while it can host up to 12 guests in ensuite cabins.

The first ZEN50 model, whose construction started in March 2022, will not consist of an engine system and will not have any fossil fuels onboard. With a 160 kWh battery bank, the ZEN50 energy system has been designed to function for days in complete safety with minimal solar energy harvest and no wind, operating without polluting emissions. This means that users can cruise in remote areas without having in mind refueling concerns. Of course, zero-emission entails a low cost of operation. ZEN Yachts aims to achieve a zero carbon footprint by 2030.

ZEN50 has a maximum speed of 14 knots

‘Our main voltage system either 48 or 88V depending on the propulsion making it perfectly safe to work on. The level of redundancy of the batteries and solar panels is 10!, the main electrical architecture is split in 2 so that should anything happen on 1 hull, the entire vessel can still operate normally. There are 2 independent helm stations and the ZEN50 is packed with special safety features, insubmersible compartments and we can even offer an in-depth practical course on safety equipment usage and management,’ shares the company.