Bavaria Yachts Adds Electric and Hybrid Drives to C-Line Sailboats

Bavaria Yachts is introducing electric and hybrid propulsion systems on three of its popular cruising sailboats—the C38, C42, and C46—starting in the summer of 2025. The new models, designated C38e, C42e, and C46e, aim to provide a quieter, more sustainable experience while retaining the comfort, performance, and layout familiar to Bavaria owners.

Built in collaboration with Danish marine propulsion company EPTechnologies, the “e” variants use a saildrive powered by an electric motor delivering 25kW of output on the C38e and C42e, and 37kW on the larger C46e. All systems are governed by EPTechnologies’ Multibox control module, which manages battery charge and propulsion operations.

Standard battery capacity on the smaller models is 18.2 kWh, with the option to add up to two additional packs. The C46e includes two battery packs from the factory. This setup enables up to 50 nautical miles of range under electric power alone. For extended cruising, sailors can opt for a hybrid configuration that adds a generator. Bavaria reports a potential range of 576 nautical miles on the C38e at 5.5 knots in hybrid mode.

A key appeal of the system is not just reduced emissions, but a more serene onboard experience. “Leaving the harbor silently in the morning and gliding into an anchorage at sunset—this is no longer a dream,” the company said in a statement.

Bavaria emphasizes that the integration of the electric systems was carefully developed in-house to maintain the brand’s core values: quality, simplicity, and performance. “We’ve been looking for an alternative propulsion solution that fits our DNA,” said Norbert Leifeld, CEO of Bavaria Yachts. “With EPTechnologies, we’ve found the right partner to take this step into the future.”

Beyond propulsion, the new “e” models include the brand’s Sail-Ready package as standard, featuring B&G electronics, midship boarding gates, an electric anchor windlass, and ambient lighting. An inverter comes standard as well, powering hot water and other amenities.

Bavaria’s launch of electric-powered cruising sailboats is part of a broader trend toward alternative propulsion in leisure marine, aimed at balancing autonomy and comfort with reduced environmental impact.

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