See the 243-foot carbon fibre hydrogen-powered hydrofoil that can go 85 MPH.
Rome-based design studio, Lazzarini, has unveiled its latest 242ft-long superyacht, “Plectrum”, capable of producing a whopping 15,000 horsepower. Plectrum is the latest in several radical superyacht designs from Lazzarini. The studio unveiled Sovrano, a gigantic 169-metre superyacht concept with twin helipads and a retractable deck last year.
This new Pectrum hydrofoil luxury yacht can lift itself from the water as its speed increases. The light superyacht has been “designed to be the fastest of its kind,” and will reach a top speed of 75 knots – or 140 km/h. This 243-foot yacht has been designed to run on three motors for a combined power output of 15,000 hp.
Lazzarini said the design has been inspired by the USS Plainview, an American first hydrofoil laid down in 1964 and launched in 1965: the Luna Rossa design. It would be the largest example of foiling technology installed on a yacht. “We like to remember that in 1964, shipbuilding was already capable of similar vessel construction,” the studio said in a statement. “This different superyacht configuration will allow much faster travel than conventional ships of a similar size.” Added the Lazzarin team.
The superyacht has been designed to reach a top speed by “flying over the waterline.” Instead of being pushed by the wind, Plectrum is lifted above the water and moves via propulsion from three hydrogen-powered motors capable of 5,000 hp each. The Plectrum superyacht is also crafted from a combination of carbon fibre and other composite materials and is finished in an ultra-shiny shade of orange. It has got six guest cabins with a shipowner sweet, a helipad, a beach club, a swimming pool, and an amidships storage for tenders, plus a garage at the stern for boats or cars. Finished in a striking burnt shade, Plectrum’s exterior design has been designed by a smooth, streamlined silhouette with a flat-arched side that forms the side decks and garage openings. Living spaces are split across four decks, with the main body offering six guest cabins and an owner’s suite.
As regards the foil system, it can be adjusted depending on the “cruising needs” at the time, expanding from a width of 15 metres when the yacht is berthed/anchored, and the foil is closed up to 20 metres of the beam when open while the yacht is sailing on high speed.
Pierpaolo Lazarini is an Italian designer who works creating prototypes and concept designs, using artist visualisation. His company Lazzarini Studio Design is based in Rome. When creating concept designs, they use a few 3D technologies and software to create detailed images and videos. Although Plectrum is still a concept at this stage, Lazzarini Design says the yacht can be built on request for $87 million if a buyer is found.
