In an era where sustainability is a necessity, Dufour is rising to the challenge by offering innovative solutions aimed at reducing the environmental impact of sailing.
Dufour highlights the cutting-edge Smart Electric technology, now rebranded as ODSea+. Mathieu Fountaine and Romain Motteau, both Deputy CEOs of the group, shed light on the advancements Dufour has made in revolutionizing monohull navigation.
A Vision for Sustainable Sailing
Dufour’s commitment to environmental protection is driving its transition towards hybrid navigation. Romain Motteau explains that “the concept of hybrid navigation is based on changing the purpose and experience of sailing. The goal is to offer a new way of sailing that not only minimizes environmental impact but also enhances the tranquility of navigation by significantly reducing noise.”
The Smart Electric technology is at the heart of this transformation. It harnesses renewable energy sources to power the motor. This system ensures boats have a large range and can operate silently. This technology isn’t just about reducing emissions; it reimagines the entire sailing experience to be more in harmony with nature.
Smart Electric Technology in Action
Dufour has already integrated Smart Electric technology into several sailboats in its range, and all new models can be equipped with it. Mathieu Fountaine details the practical aspects of implementing this technology, emphasizing the enthusiasm within the Dufour teams as they embark on this new chapter in yacht building.
The first monohull equipped with the Smart Electric system has already shown promising results. This system not only powers the boat but also incorporates a hydro-generation system that helps recharge the batteries while sailing. The challenge of integrating such a system into a monohull, particularly in terms of installing the batteries required for extended autonomy, has been successfully met by Dufour’s engineering team.
A Seamless Sailing Experience
The simplicity of the Smart Electric system is one of its main strengths. The user interface is straightforward, ensuring that the transition to electric sailing is as smooth as possible for users. The central component of the system, the “One Box”, houses all the electrical systems, including the charger and the propeller leg, which are optimally placed to maintain the boat’s balance and efficiency.
This technology not only enhances the environmental credentials of Dufour sailboats but also enriches the overall sailing experience. The silence of the electric motor allows sailors to fully immerse themselves in the environment, making the experience on the water more peaceful and enjoyable.
Aligning with a Carbon-Neutral Future
Romain Motteau emphasizes that Dufour’s Smart Electric models are a critical component of the company’s overall strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
Through a comprehensive lifecycle analysis, Dufour identified that 80% of the carbon emissions from their boats occur during the usage phase, particularly due to combustion engines. “Replacing them with electric motors is a crucial step toward reducing the carbon footprint of their vessels.”
Building a Sustainable Future Together
“The path to carbon neutrality is a collective effort, requiring collaboration across the entire supply chain.” Mathieu Fountaine acknowledges the importance of partnerships in bringing these innovative solutions to life. “The success of the Smart Electric system relies not only on the technology itself but also on the support of dealers, charter companies, customers, and suppliers.”
As Dufour continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable sailing, they are paving the way for a new era in the yachting industry. The shift to hybrid navigation is not just a technological advancement; it represents a fundamental change in how we approach sailing, prioritizing the protection of the environment we love to explore.
Don’t hesitate to join us on our tour of trade shows starting this autumn to find out more about hybrid navigation.