[Press Release]

Ancona, Italy. September 22, 2009. WHY, Wally Hermès Yachts, today unveils a revolutionary
approach to cruising in motor yachts with the presentation of a full size model of its first born, an
innovative 58 metre-long 38 metre-wide yacht, in Ancona’s shipyard.

Wally Hermès Yachts: a joint-venture.
WHY is the result of the joint-venture signed in June 2008 between Hermès and Wally, to develop a new type of motor yacht redefining the art of living on the sea. The iconic Parisian house and the iconic Monaco yacht brand formed an equal partnership whereby each company is fully involved in all aspects of the conception and design of each project. Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Artistic Director of Hermès says : “When we met, in autumn 2007, Luca Bassani Antivari, President of Wally had thought about asking Hermès to accessorise the interior of one of his boats. I was impressed by the daring of his projects. My instinct was to get on board with him and go and seek out new territories in yacht design, but I had no interest in speed.”

Luca Bassani Antivari explains: “What I’ve always liked about Hermès, aside from its intrinsic quality, is its audacity and radicalism; its desire to go beyond trends, to make no compromises and to maintain the authenticity of the house. Wally shares the same values, ‘Hermès-on-Land’, ‘Wally-on-Sea’: inevitably our paths had to cross.”

WHY 58×38
The common values of the two brands have led to a first yacht that offers an unparalleled living space at sea. WHY was developed to give life to this concept assembling a team of dedicated talents in design, engineering, and naval architecture.

Then the tried and tested Norwegian Ramform hull characterised by exceptional and unprecedented stability and volume and spotted by Luca Bassani Antivari, revealed itself as the ideal choice to be adapted to the WHY 58×38 project.

Following this unique adaptation, the decks and the interiors were developed in accordance with the fundamental credo of WHY, ‘form-equals-function’. Thus were born other innovations in the world of mega yachts: patios generously flooding the interior with natural light, photovoltaic panels on the glass hull sides, as well as on the roof opening, like Venetian blinds, a 25 metre-long forward end swimming pool, and a 36-metre aft deck beach.
WHY 58×38 offers comfort, privacy, stability, space, independence and sustainability.

Sustainability
“We are very interested in creating a yacht that will have a low environmental impact”, says Pierre-Alexis Dumas. “Its relationship with the sea must be respectful and easy. WHY intends to offer a new way of moving over water by creating an innovative way of managing and recycling its sources and uses of energy.”
“If you want to go totally ecological, it’s only sailing yacht. The reality is that today, 90 % of the market is powerboats, echoes Luca Bassani Antivari. Our aim is to reduce diesel consumption per year and per yacht: 20 to 30 % for propulsion and 40 to 50 % for generation.”

Thanks to its specific hull, WHY 58×38 requires less power at cruising speed than a boat of equal size. Its diesel-electric propulsion is the most efficient motorisation today, and the surface of the photovoltaic panels, almost 900 square metres, covers most of the boat’s auxiliary system needs.

WHY Research and Development plan to optimize this project’s energy consumption by improving the isolation of the yacht and the heat recovery of its engines, and is also investigating the latest wind energy production and wind propulsion system technologies.

In comparison to a yacht of the same size, WHY 58×38 has been conceived to reduce drastically its energy consumption, saving up to 200 tons of diesel per year.
The WHY R & D program includes tank testing for hull stability in the SSPA facilities in Sweden, and the construction of a full-scale mock-up in order to allow the design team to fine tune the living areas correctly in accordance with the hull’s unique shape.

“The WHY 58X38 yacht looks very unfamiliar but it remains on a human scale. Space is the greatest luxury on the sea, but I believe the new luxury will be the time to enjoy it”, concludes Pierre-Alexis Dumas.

Designer : Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Luca Bassani Antivari, Gabriele Pezzini, and MauroSculli

Passengers will have great view over the big window located at the front of the boat, stretching to the roof from the floor. The on top LED light integrated lantern will make it easy to dock the boat at night. Upper deck is surrounded by glass to provide easy controlling the boat without disturbing pillars. This gives a much better view as well while giving a more open feeling. Outside the deck, there are security rails as a part of the hull structure that elongates backwards with the wings. A thin glass is designed to rise from the hull at the front to attach the wings at the back, making the boat simple and clean.

The interior of the lower deck is separated in two different parts, one is a private section and another one is an open lounge area, allowing the passengers to rest for a while or participate in social activities as they want. The master bedroom is located in the center which is the best place to be maximum comfortable because of the stability during any directional movements of the yacht. This concept won the award from azimut, and was shown at Piazza San Carlo in Turin ITALY in a big Azimut Event.

Specs:
LENGHT OVERALL(incl.pulpit) 22.05m
HYLL LENGHT(incl.platform) 21.73m
BEAM AT MAIN SECTION 5.12m
DRAFTS(incl.props. at full load) 1.79m
DISPLACEMENT(at full load) 33.2t
ENGINES 2×1410mHP (1036kw) MAN 12V CRM
MAXIMUM SPEED(at half load) 39 knots
CRUISING SPEED( at half load) 32 knots
FUEL CAPACITY 3.300L
WATER CAPACITY 980L
CABINS 3+1 CREW
BERTHS 6+1 CREW
BUILDING MATERIAL CARBON FIBER/VTR/GPR
KEEL V-shape with angle of deadrise 15,4 degrees aft.

Designer : Anders Gloslie

Text from Teknokat Marine:
tubiQ is a modular concept that combines the dynamics and elegance of a boat with a refined living area on at least two levels. A tubiQ is made up of various interchangeable modules which can be fitted and connected to each other in many different ways. Within limits the tubiQ can be designed in full by the customer (length, height, interior design and the number and sizes of the rooms).

tubiQ: design your floating life!
On demand the tubiQ can be equipped with state of the art electric engines and solar panels. This, combined with a water system that represents the finest level of liquid filtration, makes the tubiQ totally self supporting. tubiQ makes it possible to $enjoy your floating life anywhere you wish.

tubiQ is designed by Marcello Ligabue with Daniele Gibertoni, produced by Teknokat Marine S.r.l. and will be on sale from autumn 2009 in two basic versions: tubiQ48 (one deck) and the tubiQ59 (two decks). The tubiQs can be delivered fully furnished or casco with a price that varies from 240.000 € to 590.000 € ex VAT.

For more information about tubiQ here : http://www.tubiq.eu

Designer : Marcello Ligabue and Daniele Gibertoni

Despite the relatively modest size of the yacht, it houses three cabins – a comprehensive master cabin, a double cabin and a twin cabin, each with own private bathroom. The F-560 comprises two MAN V8-900 engines and has a top speed of 32 knots.

Designer : Ferretti Yachts

The new deck position allows direct access to the kitchen and dining room and offers additional activities combining with the salon/ living room. The pool deck can be traversed in three ways. First one is a direct outside walkway or bridge which divides the pool with an underwater opening that allows the swimmers to plummet from one side to another. Second method is a flyover which connects to the central stairs and elevator. A lower level lounge is the third option which includes glass portals into the pool. There is a helipad on the bow deck and the yacht can house 12 guests and crew.

[Press Release]

Infinitas is the second design launch of Schöpfer Yachts. Our new 300 foot (91.5 meter) yacht was designed by E. Kevin
Schopfer with Sparkman Stephens, Naval Architects. The design’s main inspiration comes from the symbol for infinity which has been abstractly expressed within the yacht’s elevation. The two major features of the yacht asserted by this closed loop infinity symbol are achieved by carving out stern and mid section elliptical deck constructs.

A central structural “spine” holds the loop together allowing the yacht’s superstructure to seamlessly flow within itself. The added benefit of “infinity” is the realignment of traditional functional areas. Within this realignment, the main deck living room, and dining room are detached. The dining room moves forward and is separated from the living room by a massive pool deck. This new deck location allows for the first time, direct access to dining room and kitchen for expanded activities, in combination with the living room/salon.

There are three methods to traverse the pool deck. First is a direct outside bridge / walkway which bisects the pool itself. This walkway has underwater openings in its support system, allowing swimmers to dive from one side to another. The pool has the option of being covered for larger venue needs.

The second method of crossing the pool deck is an overhead sky bridge which connects to the main stairs and elevator. The “sky” bridge is clear glass floor and ceiling allowing natural light to penetrate the pool below.

The third method is through a lower level lounge which features glass portals into the pool.

The main level contains the two aforementioned decks, living room, dining room, kitchen, storage, and bow deck (with helicopter pad). The interior design of the space, and others, reflects an intense minimalist palette with a dash of attitude. The main salon also features generous 12 foot ceiling height and fully glazed walls creating an island within the yacht.

The second level up is reserved for a series of guest suites and secondary bow deck. The owner’s suite occupies the third level with “sky bridge,” pilot house, and upper deck. All decks below are currently designated crew quarters, storage and
mechanical, engine room activities. Infinitas is designed to accommodate 12 guests and crew.

Thank you to Tangram 3DS for all rendering images.

Designer : Schopferyachts

Designer : Fritz Hansen via Jalopnik

Text from website:
Oculus is the first “design launch” of Schöpfer Yachts LLC. This 250-foot vessel was designed by E. Kevin Schöpfer, founder and owner of his namesake company.

Designed to accommodate 12 guests in extraordinary comfort and style, Oculus is a long distance cruising yacht capable of speeds upwards of 25 knots.

The exterior styling is representative of the jaw and eye socket bone structure of large oceanic fish and mammals. Featuring a dramatic reverse bow configuration, the yacht’s armature balances an elegant expression of symmetry and structure.

In addition to the bow, Oculus also features a “low rider profile”. This slightly lowered surface allows for new side recreational areas, alternate dockage access and light cruising openness. Lateral retractable side panels close this area when heavier wave action is indicated.

The interior features of Oculus focus on a 12 foot high ceiling in the main salon, a cylindrical double height dining room, central stair and elevator tube, and seemingly anatomical ceiling and floor lighting extensions giving definition to the seating areas.

The second level is the dedicated Owner’s suite. Living areas and bedchambers are divided by a series of four freestanding tubes, which house bath and storage necessities.

In addition to the main common stair, the second Owner’s stair connects to the third level aft private salon and deck / water feature.

The third level also contains the forward pilothouse and separate captain’s quarters. The generous open decks with separate water features are located forward and aft for convenient guest use. Specifications and plans are in the final stages of completion and will be posted at a later time.

Designer : Schopfer Yachts

Christian says :

“SENTORI 58R is a flybridge motor yacht, with three decks, a length of about 18m and a displacement of 28to.

The general exterior- design language of the vessel is mainly inspired by automotive design, using surface tensions and automotive, coupe- type key elements.

Exterior features: on SENTORI 58R a part of the windshield is acting as a door and guarantees direct access to the sunbathing area at the bow. directly below the sunbathing area the fender compartment is located which is accessible by opening the whole cover. Further more there are features such as a splitable, loweralbe bathing platform, a very low equipment carrier and a skylight-wetbar element on the flybridge deck.

Interior design and main features: the design language of SENTORI’s interior mainly uses floating elements which deal with the different levels and stairs harmonically. in general, the idea of modern and loft-like living on the sea was the foundation of SENTORI’s interior concept. Besides, the purpose was to gain a maximum of variability. SENTORI is able to serve rooms on demand: the guest cabin is not only a bedroom but can also be connected to the owner’s state room to extend the living area if wanted. therefore it can as well be used as an office, providing a desk and lounge.”

Designer : Christian Gumpold and Christopher Gloning

[Press Release]
Honda FC Sport Design Study Suggests Hydrogen Sports Car Future

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 – Honda today revealed the Honda FC Sport design study model, a hydrogen-powered, three-seat sports car concept, at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda’s V Flow fuel cell technology – already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan – and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions. The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain.

“The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum,” said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future.”

The high-output Honda fuel cell powertrain and a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to the vehicle’s performance potential. A modular approach to fuel cell component packaging and the electric drivetrain contribute to the FC Sport’s low center of gravity with the majority of vehicle mass distributed between the axles, creating the balanced weight distribution sought after in sports cars.

The ideal placement of the Honda V-Flow fuel cell stack and related components demonstrates the benefits of a platform-specific, hydrogen-powered fuel cell powertrain. The FC Sport is configured to accommodate a custom-formed high-power fuel cell stack, located between the rear seats, and a battery pack placed low in the middle of the vehicle. The electric motor resides just forward of the rear axle. Two fuel storage tanks, visible from above, are located above the rear axle.

The optimal placement of fuel cell components for performance also allows for a relatively large passenger cabin by conventional supercar standards with enough space for three seating positions. The interior layout focuses primarily on the driver with a racecar-like center driving position. The enclosed canopy opens upward from the rear to allow for entry and exit. Two rear passenger seats flank the driver’s left and right side.

The sleek, low-profile body is designed to convey a high-technology appearance with sculpting that combines angular shapes in the front of the vehicle that taper into geometric, hex forms in the rear. The rear hex forms house cooling radiators for the fuel cell. Formula 1-style barge boards behind the front wheels enhance high speed aerodynamics and convey the vehicle’s racing pedigree. The hydrogen storage tanks, visible from the rear deck, showcase the FC Sports fuel cell technology in much the same way that a “naked bike” motorcycle showcases its engineering technology.

The glacier white body color conveys the FC Sport’s clean environmental aspirations while the dark wheels and deeply tinted glass provide a symbolic contrast befitting of the vehicle’s unique combination of clean power and high performance. Green construction techniques further contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. An organic, bio-structure theme is carried through to the body construction where exterior panels are intended to use plant-derived bio-plastics.

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, in Pasadena, California, developed the FC Sport design study with the primary objective of using existing fuel cell technology as the basis for an ultimate Honda sports car. Designer Jason Wilbur led the design efforts.

Honda R&D Americas, Inc. began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend-setting products such as the Honda Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.

In 2008, the company opened two new design centers in Southern California: the Acura Design Studio (Torrance), for the research and design of new Acura products; and the Advanced Design Studio (Pasadena), for the exploration and development of advanced design themes for both Honda and Acura.

The company operates 11 major R&D facilities in North America, including a full vehicle development center in Raymond, Ohio, and three design studios in Southern California. Honda R&D designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura automobiles, powersports products, and power equipment for North America and global markets. The company’s main centers of operation include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance, California), responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, Ohio), responsible for complete product development, testing, and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and a dynamic test facility in Cantil, California.

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Designer : miBook via Gizmodo