Mastervolt buys Bellmenn
By IBI Magazine
Dutch-based electric propulsion company Bellmann has been acquired by fellow Dutch operation Mastervolt. The deal enables Mastervolt to offer a completely integrated hybrid-drive solution to boatbuilders.
Bellmann's product range includes drives from 1kW to 20kW and comes complete with matching shafts, propellers, control panels and switching gear. These innovations fit well with Mastervolt's specialist knowledge in total power management and new Lithium-Ion battery technology.
"For many boatyards, it is a logical step to move to electric propulsion," says Paul Kenninck, Mastervolt's CEO. "Some yards are experimenting with the new technologies, but don't have a contact with enough all-round knowledge. With the acquisition of Bellmann, we can now offer everything needed for a complete hybrid or dedicated electrical drive system, whatever its configuration."
Mastervolt can now offer configurations from simple mains recharged battery drives, to fully managed hybrid-drives that can be recharged from a free wheeling propeller when under sail. Pod drives powered by a generator will give designers more freedom when considering the yachts layout.
(6 November 2009)
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