WhisperPower for J-Class
Power systems specialist WhisperPower has obtained two orders for the supply of the entire hybrid power and propulsion systems for two J-class yachts which are currently under construction at Holland Jachtbouw. The systems will be delivered mid 2011 to the 39.5 m SY Rainbow and the recently ordered SY Yankee, which have been redesigned by Dykstra & Partners Naval Architects.
Constructed to Lloyd’s Register and MCA specifications, 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. The yachts will be fitted with WhisperPower Hybrid propulsion systems allowing them to navigate at up to manoeuvre entirely without emissions using two 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 will 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.