Dutch power systems specialist WhisperPower has gained two orders for the supply of the entire hybrid power and propulsion systems for two J-class yachts currently under construction at Holland Jachtbouw in Zaandam, the Netherlands. The systems will be delivered mid 2011 to the 39.5 meter long Sailing Yacht RAINBOW and the recently ordered Sailing Yacht YANKEE, which have been redesigned by Dykstra & Partners Naval Architects.

Sailing Yacht Rainbow Image credit to Dykstra

Constructed to Lloyds and MCA, both vessels will be ready in time for the J-Class regatta events to coincide with the London 2012 Olympic Games and will be used for both racing and chartering.

Sailing Yacht Yankee - Image credit to Dykstra

The sailing yacht Yankee and SY Rainbow will be fitted with a unique WhisperPower Hybrid propulsion system allowing them to navigate at up to 5 knots and manoeuvre entirely without emissions using 2 x 288 VDC/160Ah Lithium Ion batteries (LiFeYP04). During sailing no generators are needed to control the sails as all hydraulics are powered by the same battery banks. Most of the time the on board 230/400 VAC consumers, including the air conditioning, will operate through a 35 kVA inverter via the batteries. A 50 kVA variable speed generator from WhisperPower will be installed to recharge the batteries and provide electrical power to the various loads. An auxiliary diesel engine of 294 kW is planned with a 50 kW flywheel-integrated electrical motor for electric propulsion and will double as a shaft generator when the yacht is under way, generating a maximum power of 10 kW. The systems are designed in close collaboration with Holland Jachtbouw and leading technical companies in the Netherlands.