Maine-based yacht builder Hodgdon is to produce two all-electric versions of its Venetian line of electric tenders. The US company has worked on the project in conjunction with Vita Yachts, which, in addition to building vessels itself, has developed a range of electric propulsion systems.
“At Hodgdon we have always endeavored to push the boundaries in terms of materials, technology and design to optimize performance. Our move into providing all-electric tenders is further evidence of this and addresses increasing demand from the market for zero-emissions tenders onboard superyachts,” noted Audrey Hodgdon, director of sales and marketing. “We’re pleased to have developed two tenders that offer benefits that can only be achieved with electric, while remaining true to the Venetian line’s style and quality.”
Hodgdon’s tenders will use Vita’s V3 and V4 drive configurations, which have an output of 220kW and 440kW respectively. However, while Vita uses a water-jet system for its vessels, Hodgdon will deploy a z-drive and propeller setup. Significantly, Vita’s solution also offers DC fast charging, the first marinized system of this type, giving owners the option of fast charging from shore infrastructure.