Borgia, Italy – Can design serve ecology and sustainability? Yes, as demonstrated by Capoforte SQ240i, the first electric model of the Italian brand, designed by Christian Grande. In less than two years since its presentation, and after winning the 2022 Design Innovation Award in the category “Motorboats up to 10m”, it has established itself as a benchmark in electric boating.

With its 7.38 metre length and 2.46 metre width, Capoforte SQ240i can carry up to ten people, thus concentrating a new sailing philosophy in less than eight metres.

For this model, Christian Grande has thought of shapes specially designed for the electric drive. “The lines don’t have to express speed, but must be harmonious, closely linked to a relaxed and relaxing type of navigation,” he explained. “Capoforte has also succeeded in interpreting the soul of this owner, who is not looking for speed. From an engineering point of view, a specific type of lamination was chosen, suitably designed to achieve the best performance in terms of efficiency, with this type of propulsion.”

Comfort and elegance on board

The wide, rounded bow permits a deck layout centering around comfort. The entire hull is made with infusion technology.

“The relaxed and convivial atmosphere on deck is enhanced by an extremely versatile layout, in which a large folding table can make room for an additional cushion,” explains Christian Grande. “In the latest configuration, the entire bow section of the boat is transformed into a full-beam sundeck for maximum comfort.”

The central console makes it easy to move about safely; its design brings to mind an elegant high-tech item of furniture, without overdoing the dynamic look, which is inappropriate for this type of product. The presence of a large central sundeck at the stern permits full enjoyment of the convenient full-width swim platform.

On the SQ240i, the spirit of the Capoforte models is enhanced by a combination of colours, which evoke elegance and lightness, starting from the Chalk White bottom. The choice of colours, with the radiance and clarity of bright hues and electric blue lines, brings to mind the explosive energy of electricity. It also hints at the deep integration with the water element.

A fusion of technology and design

On board the Capoforte SQ240i, design merges with technology. There are two available engine options, both of course electric.

The owner can choose, for example, the Molabo ISCAD V50 electric motor, a 50kW straight-shaft inboard motor, which weighs only 45 kg. Its low voltage components ensure the motor’s high performance and efficient use of the battery, thanks also to the development of the synergy between the controller interface and the motor itself.

ISCAD combines motor and controller in one unit. This solution is easily integrated on board, reducing wiring and the space required for installation. Integration and maintenance are easy because no high voltage safety measures are required. Low-voltage (48V) components therefore efficiently use the battery’s energy, achieving a measured system efficiency of over 95% in optimum operating conditions.

The 3.7kW Yamaha HARMO outboard propulsion system, is the second available motor, which is equipped with rim-drive technology for highly efficient electric propulsion, when compared with a propeller of the same size. It is also a propulsion system that guarantees extremely easy manoeuvring, even in limited space.

The HARMO motor uses the stator positioned in the outer edge of the propeller, allowing for more thrust at lower speeds compared to conventional equivalent motors. HARMO installation is similar to that of traditional outboards, i.e. using a bracket positioned on the transom; it also features a tilt function to lift the motor out of the water when not in use or if the vessel requires grounding.