Yves Béhar gives striking shape and form to this new hybrid-electric catamaran concept

Solsea is a new concept catamaran from Rossinavi. We’ve previously covered the Italian shipyard’s Seawolf X, the first of its new generation hybrid-electric catamarans to be launched. The Solsea concept has debuted at this year’s Design Miami, showcasing not just Rossinavi’s pioneering tech, but also a sleek design, inside and out, by none other than Yves Béhar.

Béhar is an accomplished sailor and surfer, and the project has brought these passions together with his studio’s focus on sustainable technology. The design also extends to the use of durable cork flooring (supplied by Amorin) and, appropriately enough, ocean-sourced recycled plastic wherever the material is required.

For their part, Rossinavi has benefited from Béhar’s unconventional approach to naval architecture. ‘It’s been an incredible journey to see how Yves Béhar reimagined the naval platform of our hybrid-electric catamaran,’ Federico Rossi, Chief Operating Officer of Rossinavi, ‘His fresh, external perspective brought a style that is both luxurious and refined.’

Inside and out, the Solsea concept shows a softer, warmer approach to design at sea. The Solsea’s advanced battery and solar panel system has been incorporated into the superstructure, with solar panels doubling up as shading structures on the expansive deck.

As with Seawolf X, the combination of panels and on-board battery allow the yacht to give an 80% reduction in fuel consumption while cruising. It can even make a transatlantic trip under 80% electric power. For more relaxed day trips, Solsea is designed to operate 100% electrically. Fast charging should take around five hours at a suitably equipped marina.

Three years in development, the new catamaran also uses Rossinavi’s advanced onboard artificial intelligence system, Rossinavi AI, which manages the distribution of energy between the catamaran’s systems, batteries and powertrain. When moored and unoccupied, Solsea has a special hibernation mode that can transfer power from the solar panels to the quayside.

Inside, Béhar and his team have taken full advantage of the 43m catamaran’s broad beam, with a full-width owner’s cabin that offers 180-degree views and a private external balcony. The main deck has a lounge pool, while the rear sundeck has a bar and generous seating area. ‘For me, Solsea is a return to simpler, more respectful ways to enjoy the oceans while integrating the future of efficient propulsion, and cutting-edge technologies,’ says Béhar.

Rossinavi.it, @Rossinavi

fuseproject.com, @fuseprojectsf