Sanlorenzo, in partnership with MAN, presented at Boot Düsseldorf 2025 the project for the first yacht equipped with a bi-fuel green methanol propulsion system, an innovative solution capable of reducing navigation emissions by up to 70%. This system will be installed on the 50 X-Space, marking a significant step forward in sustainable yachting.
Towards a more sustainable yachting industry
Towards a more sustainable yachting industry
The project is part of Sanlorenzo’s “Road to 2030” strategy, aimed at reducing environmental impact through advanced technological solutions, anticipating global and European regulations. The goal is to develop the first carbon-neutral yacht by the end of the decade.
“We are proud to present today, alongside a major global player like MAN, an ambitious project that we are confident will contribute to revolutionizing the entire yachting sector,” stated Cav. Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman and CEO of the Sanlorenzo Group.
“Today, the choice in favor of sustainable mobility and yachting is not optional. Now more than ever, the industry and infrastructure services have the critical role of promoting the most sustainable development of the sector possible, leveraging the collaboration of all stakeholders involved. Innovation has always been one of Sanlorenzo’s core values, and once again, we confirm our role as pioneers in introducing cutting-edge technological solutions. In this sense, the 50 X-Space project will set a new benchmark for sustainability in yachting, benefiting not only the sector but beyond.”
Mikael Lindner, Head of MAN Engines, emphasized the importance of using alternative fuels like methanol as part of the company’s green transformation process.
This initiative is part of LIFE MYSTIC, a project co-financed by the European Union to test bi-fuel methanol/diesel engines and generators on a yacht. Sanlorenzo will lead the design adaptation and propulsion system conversion. The total investment amounts to €4.8 million, with 60% covered by EU funding.
Expected results include:
Through this collaboration, Sanlorenzo reaffirms its commitment to a more sustainable and efficient future for yachting.
“We are proud to present today, alongside a major global player like MAN, an ambitious project that we are confident will contribute to revolutionizing the entire yachting sector,” stated Cav. Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman and CEO of the Sanlorenzo Group.
“Today, the choice in favor of sustainable mobility and yachting is not optional. Now more than ever, the industry and infrastructure services have the critical role of promoting the most sustainable development of the sector possible, leveraging the collaboration of all stakeholders involved. Innovation has always been one of Sanlorenzo’s core values, and once again, we confirm our role as pioneers in introducing cutting-edge technological solutions. In this sense, the 50 X-Space project will set a new benchmark for sustainability in yachting, benefiting not only the sector but beyond.”
Mikael Lindner, Head of MAN Engines, emphasized the importance of using alternative fuels like methanol as part of the company’s green transformation process.
Methanol: the future of yachting
Methanol is a promising alternative fuel for the yachting industry because:
- It is biodegradable and safe to handle.
- It is biodegradable and safe to handle.
- It does not require dedicated infrastructure, only adaptations to existing facilities.
- It is already available in over 100 ports worldwide, and when produced from renewable sources, it is carbon neutral.
With the launch of the 50 X-Space in 2027, Sanlorenzo will exceed the IMO’s 2040 emissions reduction targets and the EU’s Fit for 55 plan for 2030.
LIFE MYSTIC: A european project for nautical innovation
This initiative is part of LIFE MYSTIC, a project co-financed by the European Union to test bi-fuel methanol/diesel engines and generators on a yacht. Sanlorenzo will lead the design adaptation and propulsion system conversion. The total investment amounts to €4.8 million, with 60% covered by EU funding. Expected results include:
-150 t/y CO₂eq reduction in greenhouse gas emissions;
-700 MWh/y reduction in fossil fuel consumption;
-630 kg/y reduction in air pollutants.
Through this collaboration, Sanlorenzo reaffirms its commitment to a more sustainable and efficient future for yachting.