Construction is progressing smoothly on Heesen’s Project Electra, as the Dutch yard has announced the joining of the hull and superstructure its facility in Oss. 
Photo: Dick HolthuisMarking the second vessel in the Heesen’s 50-metre 5000 class, Project Electra features a fast displacement hull form (FDHF) and hybrid propulsion. Based on her predecessor, Home, Project Electra aims to merge together performance and efficiency through the combination of the FDGF and Heesen’s hybrid solution, which merges diesel and electric propulsion. 
Photo: Dick HolthuisComing in just under the 500GT threshold, the 49.8m Project Electra features an exterior design by Frank Laupman from Omega Architects which includes a vertical bow with spray rails. Able to accommodate 12 guests in five lower deck suites and a master stateroom located on the main deck forward, she features an interior design by Cristiano Gatto.
Photo: Dick HolthuisThe hybrid system is said to offer the possibility of reduced build times and economic saving for customers. Project Electra will be able to cruise under four different modes, offering potential future owners flexible power management. When cruising in hybrid mode, she can reach a speed of 9 knots with noise levels at just 46dB. Two water-cooled DC electric shaft motors of 127kW each silently power the yacht. 
Photo: Dick HolthuisWhen using Economic mode, she can reach up to 12 knots with the main engines on and generators off. This mode is ideal for longer passages and frugal fuel consumption. Cruising mode, the traditional mode, sees Project Electra use the Diesel engines to power its propellers for a top speed of 15 knots, while Boost mode, which uses the generator-powered shaft motors and main engines reached a top speed of 16.3 knots. 
Photo: Dick HolthuisProject Electra is available for delivery in April 2020.