Helix develops electric motor technologies for ‘Magic Carpet e' high-performance yacht
by Helix 26 Jun 23:46 PDT
Magic Carpet E © Helix
Helix (a trading name of Integral Powertrain Ltd), the UK manufacturer of the world's most power-dense electric motors and inverters, has developed the motor technology for the newly launched Magic Carpet e high-performance sailing yacht.
The Magic Carpet e is a series hybrid yacht, commissioned by former L'Oreal CEO and Chairman Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, powered by a 101kWh battery. Helix partnered with Persico Marine, the architects behind the Magic Carpet e, to deliver three high-performance motors to drive the yacht.
The Magic Carpet e features two Helix SPX330-94 motors for its hydraulic pumps and a SPX330-140 motor for its electric propulsion unit. Both motors were developed from the company's scalable core technology range by Helix's X-Division, its in-house team dedicated to developing unique motor systems.
Helix applied its expertise in elite electric motorsport, including Formula E and the E1 series powerboat racing, to deliver bespoke high-performance motors for the Magic Carpet e.
The two SPX330-94 motors used for the Magic Carpet e's hydraulic pumps have a maximum continuous power output of 195kW, with peak torque of 900Nm. The SPX330-140 motor used for the system's propulsion unit has a maximum output of 180kW and peak torque of 1,395Nm. Both motors are driven by ultra-lightweight, high-efficiency silicon-carbide inverters and feature patented rotor cooling and carbon composite cooling sleeve technology, minimising mass.
James Edwards, Marine Chief Engineer at Helix, said: "Our SPX systems on board the Magic Carpet e are an excellent showcase of the relevance of our technology to the marine industry. The continuous power density of our motors is ideally suited for marine racing along with many other maritime applications, and we look forward to many more projects in the vertical."
As part of the company's growing presence within the marine industry, Helix has joined the International Electric Maritime Association (IEMA), a global centre for electrification within maritime. The IEMA advocates for policy and infrastructural support for marine electrification, enabling the sector's transition to zero-emission by 2050 by directly facilitating industry cooperation. Helix will be actively contributing knowledge while learning from other key members.