Today, a press conference titled “Innovation and Sustainability: Sanlorenzo and MAN partner to develop the first yacht with a bi-fuel engine” took place at the Blue Innovation Dock during Boot Düsseldorf. At this event, Sanlorenzo shared a pioneering project in collaboration with MAN, focusing on the development of the industry’s first bi-fuel green methanol propulsion system. This innovative system is set to be integrated into the upcoming 50 X-Space yacht, which promises to reduce navigation emissions by as much as 70%.
This initiative aligns with the “Road to 2030” strategy, which reinforces the company’s commitment to technological innovation aimed at minimizing environmental impact. Sanlorenzo is positioning sustainability as a critical driver for business growth. This ambitious strategy not only meets but surpasses global and European regulatory standards, aspiring to launch the first carbon-neutral yacht by the end of this decade, thanks to strategic alliances with key international partners.
“We are thrilled to unveil this ambitious project today alongside a major global player like MAN, and we believe it has the potential to transform the entire yachting industry,” said Cav. Massimo Perotti, the Executive Chairman and CEO of the Sanlorenzo Group. “In today’s world, opting for sustainable mobility and yachting is no longer a choice but a necessity. The industry and related infrastructure must play a crucial role in fostering the most sustainable evolution of this sector, and this requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. Innovation has always been at the heart of Sanlorenzo, and with the 50 X-Space project, we are once again reinforcing our position as trailblazers in introducing state-of-the-art technological solutions. This project will not only benefit the yachting sector but will also extend its advantages beyond the marine industry.”
“At MAN Engines, we are dedicated to simplifying our customers’ operations through leading sustainable solutions. The implementation of alternative fuels, along with hybrid and battery technologies, is central to our green transformation agenda. We are excited to further contribute to CO2 emission reductions through our collaboration with Sanlorenzo and other partners by utilizing the methanol bi-fuel drive,” stated Mikael Lindner, Head of MAN Engines.
In 2024, Sanlorenzo will take significant steps toward sustainability with the introduction of two groundbreaking models: the 50Steel, the world’s first yacht featuring a green methanol Fuel Cell system capable of converting methanol into hydrogen and subsequently into electricity to power onboard amenities through a fully carbon-neutral process; and the BGH-HSV (Hydrogen Support Vessel) by Bluegame, which is the first chase boat powered entirely by hydrogen, achieving zero emissions. This vessel can reach speeds of 50 knots with a 180-mile range and was specially designed to support two challenger teams in the latest America’s Cup edition.
Methanol: A Key Choice for the Future of Yachting
The selection of methanol for the bi-fuel engine propulsion is based on its recognition as one of the most promising alternatives for the future of marine transport. Methanol is liquid at ambient temperature, biodegradable, and safe to handle. It doesn’t necessitate extensive infrastructure adjustments but requires merely the adaptation of existing facilities, and it is already available in over 100 ports across the globe. When sourced from renewable materials (commonly referred to as “green methanol”), it serves as a zero-emission fuel, aligning with net-zero objectives. Moreover, the number of vessels utilizing methanol engines and the establishment of “green corridors” for its use are on the rise, particularly in Northern Europe, where green methanol is being adopted for passenger ships.
Even though recreational boating accounts for only 0.22% of greenhouse gas emissions within the entire maritime sector, Sanlorenzo has prioritized sustainability as a strategic focus, going beyond the targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union. With the anticipated launch of the 50 X-Space in 2027, which is expected to achieve a 70% decrease in navigation emissions, Sanlorenzo will significantly outpace not only the IMO’s 70% reduction goal for 2040 but also the more ambitious 55% target established by the EU’s Fit for 55 framework for 2030.
The LIFE MYSTIC Project
The bi-fuel propulsion system scheduled for installation on the 50 X-Space is part of the LIFE MYSTIC project, which is promoted and co-financed by the European Union. Sanlorenzo has joined this initiative alongside Ranieri Tonissi, one of MAN’s engine development partners, and Nanni Industries for the generators. Coordinated by Sanlorenzo, the project commenced in June 2024, spans 54 months, and involves a total investment exceeding 4.8 million euros, with 60% of the funding sourced from EU grants under the “Circular Economy and Quality of Life” funding line within the LIFE program.
The LIFE MYSTIC project aims to install two high-speed, four-stroke MAN diesel engines along with two four-stroke diesel generators from Nanni Industries aboard a yacht—specifically adapted to operate on a bi-fuel mix of green methanol and diesel. The project aspires to conduct tests on these engines and generators for yachts powered by a combination of diesel and methanol, with significant anticipated benefits:
– Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: 150 t/y CO2eq
– Decrease in fossil fuel primary energy consumption: 700 MWh/y
– Improvement in air quality: 630 kg/y
Sanlorenzo will take the lead in modifying the yacht’s design by reconfiguring the diesel fuel tanks to accommodate methanol while integrating this new distribution system to effectuate the bi-fuel conversion throughout the vessel. Given its complexity, the LIFE MYSTIC initiative signifies an important advancement in the sustainability journey of the yachting industry, fostering technological growth and reinforcing the alternative fuel supply chain for the entire maritime sector.