Sanlorenzo and MAN have teamed up to introduce the inaugural bi-fuel green methanol powered yacht.
This groundbreaking system, the first of its kind globally, will be installed on the upcoming 50 X-Space yacht, offering a potential reduction in navigation emissions of up to 70%.
The initiative, initially disclosed in 2024, is part of Sanlorenzo’s Road to 2030 strategy, which focuses on diminishing environmental impact and establishing sustainability as a key driver for business expansion.
Sanlorenzo aims to create the initial carbon-neutral yacht by the decade's end, with support from key partnerships with international entities.
The unveiling of the project took place at the Blue Innovation Dock at Boot Düsseldorf and is a component of the LIFE MYSTIC endeavor, endorsed and partly funded by the European Union.
“Opting for sustainable mobility and yachting is no longer a choice today,” remarked Cav. Massimo Perotti, the executive chairman and CEO of the Sanlorenzo Group.
Perotti added, “Now more than ever, the industry and infrastructure services play a crucial role in promoting the most sustainable sector development possible, harnessing the collaboration of all stakeholders.”
He further stated, “Innovation has always been one of Sanlorenzo’s core values, and once again, we affirm our role as pioneers in introducing state-of-the-art technological solutions.
“Hence, the 50 X-Space project will establish a new standard for sustainability in yachting, benefiting not just the sector but beyond.”
The shipyard has engaged in the venture alongside Ranieri Tonissi, one of MAN’s engine development partners, and Nanni Industries for the generators.
“At MAN Engines, we are devoted to streamlining our customers’ operations through leading sustainable solutions,” mentioned Mikael Lindner, the head of MAN Engines.
“The incorporation of alternative fuels, hybrid, and battery technologies is a pivotal aspect of our eco-friendly evolution,” Lindner emphasized.
LIFE MYSTIC's objective is to equip a yacht with two high-speed, four-stroke MAN diesel engines and two four-stroke diesel generators from Nanni Industries, tailored to run on a green methanol/diesel bi-fuel blend.
The plan involves testing the engines and generators for yachts powered by a mixture of diesel and methanol.
Sanlorenzo will oversee adjustments to the yacht’s design by reorganizing the diesel fuel tanks to accommodate methanol and integrating the new distribution system, finalizing the bi-fuel conversion of the entire vessel.
The endeavor is expected to span 54 months, with the launch of the 50 X-Space slated for 2027. It entails an investment exceeding 4.8 million euros, with 60% of the financing secured through EU grants.