One might say that BMW is not that massive with its electric mobility, but the German car manufacturer has recently unveiled its latest development for clean energy transportation, with its all-electric boat called “THE ICON.” This electric hydrofoil is powered by BMW battery packs and represents a collaboration for the future of sustainability in the marine segment.
With its imposing length of 43.14 feet and an impressive top speed of 30 knots, THE ICON marks a new era for battery-electric watercraft. This groundbreaking creation is the result of a brilliant collaboration between BMW, its group subsidiary Designworks, and TYDE. TYDE’s masterful craftsmanship brought the concept to life, while BMW and Designworks supplied the vision and the high-voltage batteries for the electric drive system.
THE ICON comes alive with a pair of 100 kW electric motors and 6 BMW i batteries, pulsating with a total of 240 kWh of energy. With a range surpassing 50 nautical miles. With an operating speed of 24 knots and a maximum speed of 30 knots (55 km/h), this watercraft glides silently, without vibrations, shocks, or waves. While it may not be the right vessel for long voyages, BMW, Designworks, and Tyde have created a unique electric boat that provides 360-degree views and an immersive audio experience.
The design team was tasked with creating an iconic experience for the unique watercraft concept. They focused on both the exterior and interior views, aiming to make a lasting visual impact. The watercraft features a flat hull and a central support element, designed with technical precision.
Its prism-like shape allows for a spacious entrance into the luxurious lounge, with a width of 4.5 meters in the rear section. The hull stands out with its lightweight origami structure. By utilizing foiling technology, the designers replaced conventional side sections with large glass surfaces, providing passengers with an extraordinary view as they glide above the water. The addition of modern LED light strips at the bow, stern, and charging connection points further enhances the iconic effect of THE ICON. To elevate the experience, BMW has outfitted THE ICON with the Dolby Atmos sound system. With its unparalleled sound quality, the Dolby Atmos system is perfect for the exclusive soundtrack composed by frequent BMW collaborator and film composer Hans Zimmer.
The lounge area beckons, promising the best of parties or private interludes. 360-degree rotating seats foster social interaction with a simple twist, and within easy reach, a tablet-based infotainment system ensures that every moment onboard THE ICON becomes a cherished memory. All essential features, including a tablet-based infotainment system, are strategically positioned within reach. The seats can be easily re-positioned with a simple twist, encouraging social interaction and making the lounge area an ideal meeting hub that seamlessly blends into any port or harbour setting.
This fully production ready watercraft is aimed at luxury conscious private customers and the commercial sector. It offers emission free and noiseless mobility on water, thanks to its powerful drive system and foiling technology. The electric boat is currently on display at Cannes.