German yacht design and engineering studio iYacht has unveiled the Hu'chu 55, a substantial 55-foot solar-electric sailing catamaran made of 90 per cent recycled scrap aluminium. The yacht belongs to renowned actor, film producer, and environmental entrepreneur Daniel Roesner.
Designed in collaboration with Speira
Designed by iYacht, the eco-friendly vessel is the outcome of collaboration between Hu’chu GmbH and Speira. The yacht features recyclable and recycled materials like aluminium specially designed for the yacht. This substantial use of aluminium scrap reduces the material's CO2 footprint to less than 2 kg CO2/kg of aluminium sheet, just one-eighth of the market average.
Speira has developed a 5083 aluminium alloy for the catamaran that boasts an unprecedented level of recycled content. This alloy, renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, weldability, and high strength in boat, yacht, and shipbuilding, now also features an outstanding CO2 footprint. By incorporating approximately 92 per cent external scrap, 5 per cent production scrap, and 3 per cent alloy metals, the ecological impact is minimized to less than 2 kg of CO2 per kg of finished aluminium sheet.
The aluminium is sourced from discarded license plates, road signs, cosmetic cans, automotive and construction scraps, and shredded material from recycling and sorting plants. The boat also incorporates recycled cork, salvaged wood, and natural fabrics. Daniel Roesner selected these materials for their environmental benefits and circularity, as they help close the loop, reduce waste, and give reclaimed materials a new lease on life.
“Our mission is to constantly redefine the limits of aluminium, especially in terms of sustainability. The Hu'chu 55 is a perfect proof point for this. We know the maritime requirements for our material. At the same time, we have succeeded in not using a single kilogram of primary metal in the melt for this aluminium, but mainly so-called 'end of life' scrap such as traffic signs, cosmetic cans or discarded license plates,” explained Reinhard Pritzlaff, Technical Advisor at Speira.
Other exciting features of the yacht
The design choice to expand the foresail area is complemented by including two silent, vibration-free electric motors for propulsion when necessary. The vessel has a substantial battery capacity of over 100 kWh, which can be recharged using solar panels and hydrogeneration. The hydrogeneration system leverages the boat's motion to spin the propellers of the electric motors, generating electricity through electromagnetic induction.
“I am very proud to announce our collaboration between Hu'chu GmbH and our amazing Aluminium producer Speira. Especially Reinhard Pritzlaff , Guelsen Cakmak , Annika März , Cédric Rauhaus and the whole team that stands behind them deserve my sincere gratitude. They are the silent magicians behind the aluminium products we hold in hand every day, from the foil to the car part, from the cosmetics can to the lids on our yogurt and now especially our very own super low CO2 Boat Aluminium for the huchu55,” said Daniel Roesner.
According to the manufacturer, the photovoltaic panels not only generate electricity but also enhance efficiency by keeping the water heating system cool. Renewable energy sources power the onboard vegetable garden, water treatment system, and all other needs, including the owner's film editing room.The boat's interior blends black and brown tones, creating a stylish and comfortable environment. In contrast, the exterior showcases the raw, unpainted metal, giving it a rugged and authentic look, fitting for an explorer catamaran.
Prioritising sustainability
To prioritise sustainability, Daniel Roesner opted against high-energy air conditioning. Instead, the design team utilised insulated glass, optimised shading and sun sheltering, and carefully designed ventilation systems to ensure comfort and energy efficiency.
Looking ahead, Roesner aims to collaborate with like-minded partners who share his vision for sustainable maritime practices. His goal is to scale up the production of the Hu'chu 55, democratising its technology to promote circularity in marine vessels.
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