The X-POWER system by Xenta on board the Sanlorenzo 50Steel Almax

If there’s one thing Sanlorenzo and Xenta have in common, it’s innovation and the ambition to reduce the environmental footprint of yachts and superyachts. That’s why it’s exciting to see Xenta’s X-Power system on board the superyacht Almax, the first Sanlorenzo 50Steel—a vessel that was the star of the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show and is set to make headlines for a long time to come.

There are numerous innovations that make this superyacht unique, delivered in July 2024 to its owner, Massimo Perotti: the Reformer Fuel Cell system, powered by hydrogen generated from green methanol, which supplies energy to the onboard system with zero emissions. The design, curated by Zuccon International Project, with interiors by Piero Lissoni, boasts a layout that pushes the boundaries of conventional yacht design. Additionally, the patented Sanlorenzo HER (Hidden Engine Room) system redefines technical spaces and internal volumes, allowing for more efficient engine room placement. Complementing these innovations is the X-POWER system by Xenta, which provides intuitive and secure control of the hybrid propulsion system. Developed in collaboration with Siemens Energy, it’s a technology that supports low carbon emissions during the experience at sea, positioning itself as an indispensable ally for the environmentally conscious owner.

Almax is equipped with a propulsion system that offers three distinct navigation modes: diesel-mechanical, diesel-electric, and full-electric. The X-Power system, provided by Siemens Energy and developed with Sanlorenzo’s engineering, was created by Xenta, a high-tech brand of Quick Group specialized in integrated control systems, with the aim of improving the vessel’s maneuverability.

“With the 50Steel prototype, Sanlorenzo has chosen Xenta as a partner for the integration of the control system for its innovative hybrid propulsion system – Sanlorenzo highlights – The operational versatility of the 50Steel is ensured by the different configurations available, from traditional operation with diesel engines to the silent ‘zero emission mode’ powered by electric motors via batteries. Xenta has developed a unique system that integrates propulsion, power generation, and maneuvering into a single intuitive, ergonomic, and compact solution. During the development phase, flexibility, quick adaptation, and the ability to collaborate with the various partners involved made Xenta the ideal partner. The result is a highly reliable system that fully reflects Sanlorenzo innovative and sustainable vision”.

This solution completely transforms the navigation experience, enabled by a custom-designed hardware and software architecture. Xenta manages all propulsion modes, whether controlling traditional internal combustion engines (diesel mode) or electric motors (electric mode). Additionally, it is possible to activate the hybrid mode, in which the internal combustion engines drive the electric motors, thereby utilizing the energy generated by the reversible electric machines to power the onboard hotel services. This enables optimized energy management, significantly reducing the electrical power demand from the AC generators.

“We are proud to be co-protagonists of such a challenging project that aligns with one of the core values of our Group: sustainability – says Lorenzo Mongiardo, Chief Innovation Officer of Quick Group – This type of Xenta system is fully adaptable to diesel-electric coupling configurations, whether in ‘line’ or in ‘parallel’, thanks to the direct management of engagement clutches and engine RPM synchronization, offering maximum customization. Moreover, we guarantee high safety standards with redundant systems for diesel propulsion”.

Regarding user experience (UX), the R&D teams of all involved companies have left nothing to chance. Through a display positioned on the dashboard, the captain can easily select the three different operating modes, which are then transmitted directly to the Siemens Energy system and controlled through X-POWER by Xenta electronic throttles. These throttles control the power output, gear shifting, and the transition from one propulsion system to another. Furthermore, the display enables the operator to control the ship’s electrical generation mode by disengaging the propulsion system and activating the generators, when needed, solely to power hotel services.