Renowned Dutch semi-custom yacht builder Contest Yachts has announced the exciting introduction of Torqeedo’s long-range electric propulsion system for the new Contest 50CS and Contest 49CS, with the intention in time that the option will extend into further range models.

• Deep Blue propulsion system combines 50kW Torqeedo Deep Blue saildrive with powerful Deep Blue 40 lithium-ion batteries and fully integrated onboard power management and distribution

• High-capacity batteries power air conditioning and other hotel loads, reducing generator runtime and extending silent mode to life at anchor as well as underway

• Renewable energy generation via reverse generating propeller, plus two in-hull Watt&Sea hydro generators and Solbian solar panels

• Fully integrated backup genset delivers massively extended long range for distant voyaging via 20kW DC generator and 400-liter fuel tank

Contest Yachts CEO Arjen Conijn says of this move, “Going all-electric is clearly a good thing to do but it cannot be done lightly if it is to be done well. We have looked long and hard at this, and we are excited at our innovative collaboration with our chosen partner Torqeedo and with battery technology from BMW. This system we have arrived at is truly first class. It is robust, enduring and ultimately super-efficient, and especially so with the added power regeneration systems we’re inbuilding from Watt&Sea and Solbian. Our ‘all-electric’ is genuinely all-electric bluewater sailing made real.”

The Contest 50CS is powered by a Deep Blue 50 SD and powerful Deep Blue 40 batteries. Credit: Contest Yachts

Expanding on this, Contest Senior Technical Engineer Robert Vijselaar says, “It’s interesting, at the mention of electric drivetrains many immediately question range, yet with conventional drives range is never in the question set, it’s always just about tank size, not how far that will get you. Here we’ve run the numbers across all conditions: wind, sea state, etc and our already class-leading range capabilities are now potentially bettered by going electric. It’s a win-win!”

It is also a win in terms of maintenance, with much reduced mechanical componentry, and the removal of LPG from the onboard energy mix with its associated safety and destination-replacement issues.

Interested in learning more about the all-new Contest 49CS and Contest 50CS with Deep Blue? Contest is holding an open house event at their yard in Medemblik, Netherlands on April 15. You can register to attend here.

More information:

More information about Contest Yachts:   › Contest Yachts

Find high-resolution pictures at the:   › Torqeedo Dropbox

Find out more about the new approach:   › THE FUTURE IS ORANGE

Find the main catalogue 2023 here:   › Catalogue 2023

Related Torqeedo Products

Deep Blue 50 Saildrive ≡ 80 CV