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Hybrid System

Our expertise

Our hybrid propulsion systems are based on a comprehensive architecture that incorporates the following elements:

Internal combustion engine

  • Compatible with petrol, HVO diesel or biodiesel,

  • Power range depending on boat type and category,

  • Can be retrofitted or installed in new builds.

Electric motor

  • From 10 kW to +200 kW

  • Liquid cooling

  • Direct integration on shaft line or pod/azimuth base

Solar panels

  • Rigid or flexible technologies adapted to the marine environment,

  • Installed power varies according to available space and energy requirements,

  • Renewable energy production for battery charging and auxiliary power supply,

  • Can be integrated into decks, roofs or superstructures.

Battery

  • LFP, NMC or LTO lithium-ion batteries,

  • Marine certifications (DNV, BV, RINA depending on project),

  • Modules can be expanded depending on the desired cycles and range.

Marine fuel cells

  • Electricity generation through electrochemical conversion of hydrogen

  • Power range depending on the ship’s energy architecture

  • Silent and emission-free operation for supplying the electrical network.

Charging systems

  • Marine AC/DC charger for alternative sources (quay, generator),

  • DC/DC converters for continuous sources (solar, hydrogen, auxiliary batteries)

  • Bidirectional converters.

Energy management interface (marine HMI)

  • Complete system supervision: engine, battery, auxiliaries
  • Automatic energy distribution,
  • Intuitive interface adapted to crews and operators.

Specific technical development

Energy management optimisation

Kinell designs custom software for the automatic distribution of power between the combustion engine, auxiliary load and electric motor.
Advantages:

  • Reduction in overall consumption
  • Optimisation of battery life
  • Adaptation to mission profiles and usage cycles
  • Real-time monitoring via the human-machine interface (HMI)

Telematics solution and remote monitoring

Our hybrid systems incorporate telematics tools for fleet tracking and management.
Features:

  • Real-time monitoring of performance and consumption
  • Alerts and predictive diagnostics to anticipate maintenance
  • Data analysis to improve energy efficiency
  • Centralised management for professional fleets

Operating modes

Series hybrid system

The series hybrid system uses a combustion engine to generate electricity. The propeller is driven by an electric motor. The battery stores energy and smooths out energy requirements.

Electric mode

Only the electric motor drives the propeller; the combustion engine remains switched off. Ideal for manoeuvring and sensitive areas.

Hybrid series mode

The combustion engine recharges the batteries via a generator; ideal for regular cycles and has better energy efficiency.

Parallel hybrid system

The parallel hybrid system combines a combustion engine and an electric motor that are mechanically connected to the drivetrain. Both engines can operate independently or together.

Electric mode

The electric motor can assist or replace the combustion engine for a very short period of time to propel the propeller. Used for manoeuvring, sensitive areas or slow navigation.

Parallel hybrid mode

The combustion engine and electric motor drive the propeller either alone or together, while the battery stores energy to assist with electric power. Reduced consumption and boost mode.

Applications

Our hybrid propulsion systems are suitable for many types of vessels: passenger transport, workboats (port services, shipyards, inspection), coastal fishing vessels, river vessels (barges, tug boats) as well as pleasure boats and yachts.

Our other solutions

Kinell offers other marine propulsion systems: hydrogen and hybrid.

Hydrogen

Electric propulsion, fuel cell power, high-pressure tanks, certified storage, secure refuelling and increased range.

Fully electric

A 100% clean and silent solution, ideal for river, coastal and environmentally sensitive areas.

Ready to hybridise your next vessel?

Our experts design and integrate hybrid propulsion systems tailored to your boat type, usage and regulatory requirements.