In a collaboration between BMW and boat manufacturer Tyde, they have introduced The Icon, a cutting-edge watercraft that aims to compete with the Lexus LY in the domain of luxury yachts. Making its debut at the scenic 76th Cannes Film Festival, The Icon distinguishes itself as the first of its kind to incorporate a battery-powered marine propulsion system, thereby setting a new standard for environmentally friendly luxury yachts.
The collaborative effort between BMW and Tyde resulted in the creation of The Icon, with BMW taking the lead in its development and Tyde bringing the concept to life. The design of The Icon was crafted by Designworks, a subsidiary of the BMW Group, and its electric drive system is also powered by BMW technology. A notable feature of The Icon is the integration of hydrofoil technology inspired by yacht racing. This innovative addition, according to BMW, not only reduces energy consumption by up to 80% compared to traditional hulls but also enhances comfort and enables higher speeds.
Equipped with two 100-kW electric motors, The Icon harnesses the power from six BMW i3 batteries to deliver a serene sailing experience on the water. With a length of 43 feet (which is shorter than the 65-foot Lexus LY), it can achieve an impressive top speed of 30 knots or 35 mph. In comparison, the Lexus LY, powered by the Volvo IPS 1350 motor, has a slightly higher top speed of 32 knots or 37 mph.
In a harmonious collaboration, The Icon, like the BMW i7, showcases an exclusive soundtrack created by the acclaimed two-time Oscar winner Hans Zimmer. Adding to the allure, this luxury yacht is equipped with a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos sound system, promising a captivating and immersive audio experience for all those on board, from passengers to crew members.
BMW’s The Icon presents a stylish interior with artistically designed furniture and 360-degree rotating seats for versatility and passenger interaction. The digital control unit features BMW’s iDrive technology, accessible through voice commands and a high-resolution touchscreen display. While pricing details remain undisclosed, The Icon is positioned as a luxury product catering to affluent customers, showcasing BMW’s expansion into non-automotive ventures.
