We are in the age of electric vehicles but when we think of them all that ever comes to mind is cars. Electric vehicles go beyond just road transportation. While it may take some time to have electric ones that actually fly or sail, concept designs like Kira show us that the design innovation for them has already begun!
Isaac Burrough, a designer from New Zealand, has created a 110 meters long superyacht concept that uses current and future sustainable technologies to maximize the impact. Kiwa is named after the Māori guardian of the ocean which is a fitting name given that its goal is to help the planet through its energy-saving features and sleek design. ‘The intention for Kiwa was to design a superyacht that is both modern and elegant. Her sleek silhouette combined with curvaceous surfaces adds grace despite her exploration capabilities. A yacht that will look sophisticated whether cruising the Mediterranean or the arctic,” says the designer.
Kiwa’s narrow, low-volume to length hull ensures motor-efficiency from the ground up. The yacht also features 200 square meters of solar panels that power the everyday activities, crew usage as well as the hotel load. Along with lowering fuel consumption it also uses a hybrid propulsion system that allows it to select an electric-only mode when the yacht wants to enter remote zones – this promotes sustainable traveling as it cuts out the pollution and also lets guests enjoy al fresco dining without the generator noise! Looking to incorporate the best that engineering has to offer, its electric capacity is expected to extend from several hours to unlimited as solar and battery technologies advance enabling emission-free motoring.
As it protects nature, Kiwa also allows her guests to enjoy nature! The expansive deck areas and 175 square meters of storage space encourage the guests to be outside and also get comfortable with living a different lifestyle for an extended period of time. The large main deck has sliding doors and multiple lounge areas that make versatile pockets of sanctuaries in shade or sun. And what is a yacht without a pool? Of course, Kiwa has not one but multiple pools! The one above the swim platform is a glass-bottom pool and is cantilevered off the main deck and, on the lower deck, in-built sun pads are partially covered by the blue rays emitting from the glass. The sun pads provide a panoramic view while the sun deck boasts a jacuzzi with an elevated and equally unobtrusive view. Even the spa area has semi-submerged pools that allow guests to enjoy scenery both above and below the water surface. Kiwa is an example of how we can use technology for a sustainable future full of travels!
Designer: Isaac Burrough
