World premiere of THE ICON – a zero-emission watercraft by BMW and TYDE

We have already revealed that BMW and boat manufacturer TYDE have worked on a zero-emission watercraft. Now at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, the ICON is officially being unveiled and of course we are bringing you all the details about the luxurious electric boat.

Measuring 13.15 metres long and with a top speed of 30 knots (55kmh), THE ICON is an innovator in the world of battery-electric driven watercrafts. BMW developed the concept and brought together experts from various branches of mobility to work collaboratively on this groundbreaking project, with their team leading the way. Designworks, the innovation hub owned by the BMW Group with studios based in Los Angeles, Munich, and Shanghai designed THE ICON while TYDE was responsible for its development and realisation. The electric drive system that propels THE ICON sources its energy from high-voltage batteries supplied by BMW i, creating a unique marine travel experience. To enhance it further, THE ICON is accompanied by an original soundtrack composed by award-winning film score luminary Hans Zimmer.

Twin 100 kW electric engines transform the 240 kWh of energy from six BMW i3 batteries into enough power for a range of more than 50 nautical miles, or about 100 kilometers. Top speed is at 30 knots (55kmh). And thanks to its advanced foiling technology and drive system, it is able to move swiftly and soundlessly across bodies of water without creating any vibrations or waves.

The design

The watercraft boasts a distinctively flat hull and central support element for its transparent architecture. This particular design, featuring a prism-like outline, creates a 4.5 meter wide space in the rear section, providing a spacious interior for the luxuriously appointed lounge. The origami foldable lightweight structure also adds to the craft's unique look. The large glass surfaces allow the passengers to have an extraordinary view while gliding above the water. Striking LED light strips at the bow and stern, as well as on charging connection points, contribute to THE ICON's iconic silhouette.

Transparent doors offer a gateway to a stylish lounge comprising of luxurious furniture and carpeting. The pieces are crafted from metal plates which reflect the sunlight onto the floor, and the user experience is centered around the swivel chairs that can be easily adjusted for social interaction. This arrangement creates an inviting space suitable for any port or harbour.

The command center of the craft is in the middle part of the deck and contains a BMW-style ship's wheel and instruments. Instead of a traditional setup, there is a digital control unit integrating all important elements. A 32-inch touchscreen display with 6k resolution provides a visual interface similar to BMW iDrive Operation System 8. Voice commands can be used to access data like range information and weather reports.

The ICON has been designed for the modern, urban lifestyle and can be employed as a type of marine transportation by luxury-seeking customers, as well as businesses. This vessel will push forward pollution-free luxurious transport on water while giving its passengers utmost comfort.

Pictures: BMW Group