Catamaran industry soaring with MODX: Inflatable wing sails pushing the market to unprecedented highs
In the world of recreational boating and sustainable yachting, a groundbreaking vessel is about to make its grand entrance. The MODX, a 70ft yacht designed by offshore racing supremos VPLP and constructed by a Lorient yard with extensive experience in offshore racing multihulls, is scheduled to be unveiled in La Grande Motte this April.
The MODX is a testament to innovation, striving to be the first yacht capable of self-generating energy, enabling it to sail the oceans without emitting CO2. Over the past several years, the development of the MODX has been meticulous, incorporating various cutting-edge technologies that make it a revolutionary vessel in its class.
One of the most notable features of the MODX is its commitment to zero fossil fuel use. The yacht recently completed a 2,000-nautical-mile trip around Spain powered exclusively by wind and electric motors, eliminating the need for fuel or generators onboard.
The MODX is also built using environmentally friendly materials. It boasts a 38% bio-based epoxy resin, 40% recycled PET foam, and natural materials like flax fiber and cork, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
Instead of traditional sails, the MODX uses two inflatable wings supported by telescopic carbon masts, developed by Lorient-based specialists Aeroforce. These wings, which are dual inflatable and retractable, harness wind power efficiently and offer 35% extra power over conventional sails.
The MODX operates fully on renewable energy sources, combining wind power from the wing sails with electric propulsion, making it a pioneer in "Forever Green" propulsion. Two adjustable pitch propellers provide over a third of renewable energy, or 3kW at 10 knots boat speed.
The boat is also equipped with 70m2 of solar panels, which can harness 12kW for the 230kWh lithium battery bank. It can even harness and store 800 liters of rainwater.
The MODX is available in three versions: owner's yacht, charter, and expedition, all with crew accommodation and the expedition version featuring a 'scientific area'. The yacht is largely controlled automatically and monitored from an internal bridge.
The MODX, with a light displacement of 23 tonnes, is respectable for a 70ft catamaran. Its specifications include a length of 21.33 meters, a beam of 10.00 meters, and a draught of 2.00 meters. The two 40kW electric motors provide silent propulsion for 100 miles at 5 knots or 40 miles at 8.5 knots.
For those interested in learning more about the MODX, contact details can be found at modx-catamarans.com. This innovative vessel promises to redefine sailing and set a new benchmark for zero-emission yachting.
[1] Boat International - https://www.boatinternational.com/news/modx-catamaran-unveils-zero-emission-70ft-yacht-117156 [3] Superyacht Times - https://www.superyachttimes.com/news/modx-catamarans-launches-new-70-foot-yacht/ [5] Yacht Harbour - https://www.yachtharbour.com/news/modx-catamarans-launches-new-70ft-yacht-with-zero-emissions-capabilities/
The MODX, with its innovative design and commitment to sustainability, is not only revolutionizing the recreational boating industry but also blurring the lines between lifestyle, technology, and sports. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies and environmentally friendly materials, this yacht stands as a symbol of a technological revolution in sports-centered living.
