BMW debuts in seaplanes

Betting more and more on electric vehicles, BMW seizes every opportunity to expand its range of battery-powered models. After electric cars and SUVs, more and more available, and after having already shown interest in electric bicycles, the builder seems to adopt the path of Cupra and also dedicate himself to the construction of recreational boats without a combustion engine and with the curiosity of resorting to hydrofoils to fly over the waves.

called The Icon, the 43-foot (13.15-meter) boat was designed by BMW Designworks and built by the Tyde shipyard, being presented to the public during the 76th Cannes International Film Festival, in France, where it accompanied the European baptism of the BMW i7 M70. The first feature of The Icon that stands out is the fact that it has a glazed surface all aroundsacrificing the traditional solarium, usual in boats of this caliber, with the glass cover pursuing a more refined aerodynamics.

Two electric motors, each with 100 kW (136 hp), powered by six batteries from the BMW i3

Also with a view to reducing consumption, to maximize autonomy, the boat presents a very low hull, since it was designed to navigate above the waves, supported by the three sheets, one in the bow and two in the stern. The fact of moving on the waves and not through them -which will only be possible if they are small- guarantees a higher level of comfort, but above all it greatly reduces friction in the water, allowing you to increase speed and reduce consumption.

The icon is mounted two electric motors of 100 kW (136 hp) each, which isn’t much for a 43-foot boat, but still advertises a cruising speed of 24 knots and a top speed of 33 knots. The electric motors are powered by a battery with a total capacity of 240 kWh, essentially six i3 batteries together, ensuring a 50 nautical mile range (about 90 km) at cruising speed. This ship will be ready to reach its future owners in 2024, but no pricing information has been revealed yet.