- Yacht News
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by Avasta
Silicon Valley yachting start up says it will launch first yacht in 2023
By
APB Staff
| 28 April 2021
A Silicon Valley startup is trying its hand at the yachting business with the release of its 8.2-metre Navier 27 design. The yacht is an all-electric, hydro-foiling concept that aims at zero emissions. The company, Navier, has also announced a “Pioneer Program”, which it says replicates Tesla’s business model with a “direct to consumer” connection. The programme is an invite-only scheme aimed at tech-savvy boaters with a limited production run to start in 2023. A US$1,000 deposit is required to join the scheme. The estimated base price is US$300,000.
Navier says it is working with America’s Cup experts on the 27-foot boat, which is to have a range exceeding 75 nautical miles at 20 knots under electric propulsion. The boat is to have an active foil control system with retracting foils. The plan also calls for advanced autonomy features. Navier claims that the company has received a positive reaction after debuting the concept at the Palm Beach International Boat Show in March 2021. The Pioneer Program was a result of high demand for early build slots, according to Navier.
“The goal is to bring together a small group of early adopters and start building a community that is eager to push new innovations in the boating industry,” said co-founder and CEO Sampriti Bhattacharyya. Navier says the first on-water demonstration will be at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in 2022.
The Navier 27 is to be powered on twin 50kW engines and have capacity for up to 10 passengers.
