Electric powertrains make their way into series production
With the announced arrival of the Bavaria C38e, C42e and C46e in summer 2025, electric propulsion is gaining a foothold in the German shipyard's C-LINE range. Derived from existing combustion-powered models, these new units retain their deck plans, hulls and fittings, but adopt an alternative propulsion system designed for silent, more autonomous use at anchor.
The heart of the system is an electric saildrive. The Bavaria C38e and C42e are powered by a 25 kW motor, while the C46e goes up to 37 kW. The saildrive transmission ensures compact integration and limits drag under the hull. The engine was developed in partnership with the Danish company EPTechnologies, which specializes in on-board propulsion systems.
Centralized management with Multibox
The control system is based around a single module, the Multibox, which manages charging, discharging and the distribution of energy between on-board systems. This electronic box also controls data display for the crew, via a connected interface. It integrates with the general on-board electrical system, without altering yachtsmen's habits of use.
Modular batteries and a range of up to 576 miles
The Bavaria C38e and C42e come as standard with an 18.2 kWh lithium battery pack, expandable to three modules, for a range of over 50 nautical miles at reduced speed. The larger Bavaria C46e receives two modules directly. The option of an on-board generator enables these units to be converted into true hybrids, significantly increasing their range: at 5.5 knots, the C38e hybrid claims up to 576 nautical miles.
A configuration designed for coastal cruising
These new versions retain the sail plan and marine characteristics of the C-LINE series. They are aimed at a mainly coastal sailing program with long stopovers, where the absence of engine noise and the ability to power on-board systems become important arguments. A 230 V inverter is fitted as standard to power the water heater, electric galley and electronic systems.
EPTechnologies: Danish know-how at the service of European construction sites
Founded in Denmark, EPTechnologies specializes in alternative drive systems for production yachts and sailboats. Their catalog includes motors, batteries, control systems and user interfaces. Integration into the Bavaria range is based on close collaboration with engineers at the Giebelstadt shipyard, ensuring compatibility with existing production lines.
With this new range of electric- and hybrid-powered sailboats, Bavaria is responding to a growing demand among yachtsmen to reduce noise and environmental impact without sacrificing autonomy. Will the future of coastal cruising lie in this progressive hybridization? It remains to be seen how these models will be received in real-life conditions, and what innovations will follow in the years to come.
