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Reuben Trane, President of Island Pilot, LLC, has announced that the company will introduce the first-ever zero emissions production motoryacht at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show on October 30th to November 3rd.

At this much anticipated event, the Island Pilot DSe Hybrid 12m is expected to be unveiled as the most economic and environmentally-friendly choice in yachting due to its remarkable efficiency. This was accomplished by the creative utilization of technology that combines diesel, solar and electric power – the components that create the DSe acronym.

“There are so many reasons this boat makes sense in today’s environment,” said Trane. “At a time with record high oil prices, we are bringing to market a product that will dramatically reduce the most visible expense of a recreational motor boat – the cost of diesel. The DSe’s efficiency will make all the difference in the world when compared to other luxury yachts. Plus, she’s ready for alternative fuels. The DSe’s Steyr ‘monoblock’ engine runs equally well on bio-diesel.”

Measuring 12 meters (39’6”) and utilizing a six kilowatt (kw) solar array plus a 20 kilowatt-hour (kwh) battery bank, the DSe Hybrid 12 m can travel at seven knots in 'zero emissions mode' using only electric power or up to 13 knots using diesel.

Additionally, enough solar energy can be produced while at anchor to support a comfortable lifestyle without the need to run a diesel generator. The revolutionary combination of technology - Steyr Motors Serial Hybrid Propulsion System, Outback Energy Solar Controllers and Inverters, and Enersys “True Lead” Odyssey Batteries - along with a structural design resulting in the maximum amount of horizontal area on which to mount solar panels, has enabled the DSe to achieve this new standard for cruising economy.

Whilst the DSe has been constructed for utmost efficiency, the yacht has all the amenities and comforts of the most luxurious cruising yachts. Features of the vessel include:

*On-deck master stateroom with a forward-facing queen-sized “sleigh bed” and a 270-degree panoramic view provided by 30”-high windows on three sides. Steps lead down to the extensive dressing room and head in the starboard hull.

*Expansive guest stateroom with ensuite head, dressing room and island queen bed that converts into a pair of single berths.

*The spacious and comfortable “great room” and galley includes two settees, a high-low table, a 26” HDTV and a Bose home theater.

*An express-style bridge with wrap-around seating for eight, twin helm chairs and centerline console.

Speaking about the new vessel, Trane said “Our goal from the initial concept stages two years ago was to deliver six knots on solar energy alone. Sea trials earlier this year proved it can be done. We feel the DSe represents a real breakthrough, opening the door to a new era of environmentally-friendly and efficient cruising yachts.”