BMW, the German luxury automaker, is joining forces with Tyde, a high-end boat maker, to push the boundaries of maritime mobility with what is being described as the largest and most opulent electric hydrofoil yacht. The collaboration was publicly announced by Tyde, highlighting a bold vision that merges automotive engineering with premium marine design.
Design details released for the flagship Open Tyde point to a 14.7-meter hull paired with a 4.5-meter beam. With a displacement around 11.5 tons, the yacht is envisioned to deliver a blend of stability, speed, and efficiency that caters to ventures on open waters. Propulsion is planned around two electric motors, each rated at 100 kW, enabling a top speed near 30 knots and offering a dynamic sailing experience that enthusiasts often associate with both performance boats and advanced electric crafts. A 400 kWh battery pack is projected to deliver a cruising range of roughly 50 nautical miles at steady speeds, with the potential to extend further through optimization and weather conditions. To maximize range without sacrificing aesthetics or performance, the roof will be outfitted with solar cells that capture daytime energy and contribute to propulsion or onboard power needs. This approach mirrors a growing strategy in the electric yacht segment that combines energy harvesting with high-efficiency hull forms.
This project follows Tyde and BMW’s earlier collaboration on The Icon, a luxury electric boat that drew attention for its battery approach and premium materials. There is speculation that Open Tyde could leverage batteries from BMW’s automotive program, a continuation of the cross-industry battery strategy that has energized both car and marine technology sectors. The possibility underscores a broader trend where automakers supply high-density packs to marine platforms, aiming for seamless energy integration and reliable performance under demanding conditions. The potential battery lineage is a talking point for observers who track how automotive technology transitions to waterborne platforms and how battery chemistry and management systems adapt to marine use cases.
Open Tyde is described as having a single cabin and a double sleeping area with an integrated bathroom, delivering a compact yet comfortable living space on board. While the price tag has not been publicly disclosed, industry benchmarks for similar flagship projects in this niche place the innovative concept in a premium category, echoing past price discussions around The Icon and its luxury positioning. The focus remains on delivering a refined travel experience that emphasizes quiet propulsion, smooth ride quality, and an upscale interior that supports extended stays on the water. The financial details are likely to reflect the blend of advanced propulsion systems, high-end materials, and the engineering effort required to integrate hydrofoil performance with long-range electric power trains. The evolving cost dynamics of electric marine ventures continue to capture attention among enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
Earlier work in the field and prototype testing across hydrogen storage and propulsion systems has highlighted how alternative energy pathways, such as hydrogen and electricity, are reshaping expectations for performance, range, and refueling or recharging cycles. The Open Tyde concept sits within a broader narrative of electric and hybrid marine technologies, where designers seek to balance speed, range, and luxury with responsible energy use. Observers note that the project could influence future yacht design, encouraging more firms to explore floating platforms with integrated solar support, efficient hulls, and scalable battery systems. The outcome will depend on supply chains, battery availability, and regulatory approvals that govern electric vessels at sea. (Source attribution: Tyde)