February 3, 2009

Propulsion: ZF Hybrid System

ZF Marine, in cooperation with the Ferretti Group, has developed a hybrid propulsion system for pleasure craft. Ferretti, renowned for building high quality motor yachts, worked together with ZF Marine to develop a "green" motor yacht which can cruise for long periods without using the Diesel engines, but an electric propulsion system fed by battery power. This means a considerable saving in fuel and the elimination of the "greenhouse" gases responsible for global warming. In addition, yacht owners will appreciate the smooth, quiet operation afforded by electric motors instead of Diesel engines. This should indeed appeal to all sea-lovers who prefer the peace and quiet of clean, silent propulsion when cruising in restricted waters or maneuvering in harbors. The joint development with ZF Marine, a company well known for innovation and technology, means Ferretti has a partner with an equivalent reputation for innovation and quality products. The ZF transmission system incorporates a hybrid module with integrated clutches and an electric motor powered by lithium batteries for "green" mode operation. A small generator set can extend the power supply from 3 hours (batteries only) to 5 hours. During Diesel propulsion mode, the battery can be simultaneously charged, since the electric motor can function alternatively as an electric generator or a propulsion unit. Looking beyond a standard Diesel-Electric propulsion system which uses a Diesel engine to generate power for the electric motor, this innovative, parallel-hybrid propulsion system offers a Diesel-Electric function as only one of five operational modes. The system combines the reliability of traditional Diesel power, with the ability to cruise in 'Zero Emission Mode', driven by two 70 kW, battery-powered, synchronous, electric motors. The actual hybrid module is suitable for yachts with Diesel engines from 800 to 1400 hp @ 2300 rpm, together with the appropriate ZF Marine gearbox.

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