Boatsales Staff•8 Feb 2012

REVIEW

Greenline 40 Hybrid

Name: Greenline 40 Hybrid
Brand: GREENLINE

Greenline says its new 40 Hybrid is the motor-boating future. But is it ahead of its time?

LIKES

Hybrid technology imparts a warm, fuzzy feel underway

Less engine noise during your boating sorties

Recharging systems cover all bases

Slippery hull is very smooth riding

Mouldings a cut above the pack

Excellent internal fit and finish

Exceedingly functional layout and family friendly

Better buying than ever before thanks to Aussie dollar

Wow Factor – you will be seen to be green

NOT SO MUCH

Price premium for hybrid technology

Electrical issues will demand diagnostic experts

Tight portside walkaround due to asymmetrical cabin layout

Visual impact of oversized fridge opposite galley

When scissor berths form a double there’s a gap in the middle of the two mattresses

Unknown resale value and future relevancy in ever-changing hybrid world

Overview

- Diesel/electric/solar power reduces your cruising footprint.

This test of the Greenline 40 Hybrid is only the second in the world, the first to be written in English, and the first to be conducted in the Southern Hemisphere. Now that I have your attention, it’s time to wipe the slate or grey matter clean, forget conventional wisdom, and open your mind to the hybrid cognoscenti.

We’ve all heard the taunt from sailors about the wind being free. But, hey, so too is the sun. By teaming solar recharging with electric motors, Lithium batteries and frugal common-rail Volkswagon diesel engines, the European-made Greenline 40 Hybrid motor cruiser could well be a game changer.

Here you can gad about at 18.1 knots (18.6 knots according to the factory) at full throttle in diesel mode with conventional shaft drives or, put the feet up, and idle around at four knots for five hours using silent electric motors. When it’s time to recharge the 48V Lithium batteries you do that any one of four ways. We’ll get to that.

Although built by the Slovenian-based Seaway Group, which farms out its expert mould, component-making skills and CAD know-how to many other big European boat builders, the Greenline 40 is actually a collaborative effort. It’s one of those rare boats where the sum of the collective R&D from various sources is greater than the whole.

The interesting yacht-like hull hails from brothers Jernej and Japac Jakopin, better know simply as J&J, who are revered for their performance racers. The twin diesel engines are from Volkswagen, but rebadged Cummins as part of an arrangement where they’re responsible for servicing and warranty. The electric hybrid propulsion system hails from a company called Iskra that’s apparently well-know for such things, while Bisol is behind the solar roof, and Kokam takes the credit for the impressive Lithium batteries.

You mightn’t know of these European companies, but if you believe the Greenline story, which made headlines with its inaugural 33 Hybrid sister ship released in January 2010, you will appreciate these boats didn’t just happen along. Tank testing, computational fluid dynamic forecasting, and extensive field testing with a fleet of six Greenline 33s on various waterways preceded its release.

This 40 hit the water in April last year, debuting at Dusseldorf boat show. Naturally, it offers more of just about everything. Meanwhile, the 33 has gained design awards in more than 13 countries to date. We think the 40 is better in that it's a more liveable boat.

Price and Equipment

- Price premium but clear conscience.

The optional hybrid system on the Greenline 40 Hybrid comprising upgraded twin 150hp diesel engines -- the second biggest power choice behind twin 225hp engines – and twin 7kW electric motors with integrated 5 kW generator is an $85,000 option. And that’s over the base single 75hp diesel engine model that, while considerably slower, might be even more frugal over the life of the boat if you simply mosey about.

What’s more, we haven’t factored in the $11,000 solar recharge pack bundled for free by the local importers, North South Yachting, whose Eco Package also includes free diesel for the first year! Nor the fact the boat is built from that popular petrochemical called fibreglass. Yet such things don’t seem to unsettle Greenline buyers, who have a social conscience and are prepared to pay a premium to be seen to be green.

Interestingly, the soon-to-be owner of this boat was aged in his Sixties, transiting across power and sail, and obviously open to new technology and fresh ways of thinking. The fact the boat hasn’t a flying bridge or ladder, features safe walkaround decks, and an aft galley only adds to its appeal.

Thanks to the strength of the Australian dollar, the latest price of $577,853 for the loaded boat was some $43,000 below what the dealer was asking just one month earlier. And for that you do get a loaded boat with Electric Comfort Pack (read 240V galley amenities), Mooring Convenience Package (read recessed windlass, ground tackle, bow thruster, deck wash and more), Navigation Package (read Garmin chartplotter, radar and autopilot), and A/V Entertainment Package (read TVs).

As with most boats, teak decking adds a not inconsiderable $15,164 to the bottom line and you pay $13,464 for the luxury of air-con. But such things are among the luxuries demanded by today’s discerning pleasure-cruiser buyers. And with an optional stern thruster for $6630, the Greenline 40 Hybrid is nothing if not user-friendly. We agree with the chosen options. perhaps saving only on the teak decks.

Layout and Accommodation

- Big open-plan living spaces and two clever cabins.

You don’t need to stretch the imagination to see how the Greenline 40’s layout plays into the hands of local boaters. Far from a cold-climate boat, it’s airy saloon features rear opening doors, an awning window, electric sunroof ($13,005 option) and a handy side helm door. At rest, with everything open, the single-level living space flows seamlessly from indoors to outdoors.

Building on the convertible theme, the cockpit gains considerably more waterfront real estate thanks to a teak-topped drop-down electric transom door. Once extended you can assemble a loose teak table and chairs for al fresco lunches in the enlarged cockpit. Or sit on the swim platform with your legs dangling while shelling prawns. Moulded quarter seats with padded tops, which conceal shore power connection and fender storage, offer additional impromptu perches overlooking the water, while the cockpit is largely shaded by a hardtop.

When tied to the marina, where aft mooring lines may restrict transom access, the cockpit’s opening door to starboard calls hither. This leads straight into the wider of the two walkarounds — in other words, the cabin has an asymmetrical layout. Portside access is somewhat tighter, but decks cleats including those for springers and a nice high bow rail with deep bulwarks provide a high safety factor.

Aside from assisting with mooring or anchoring duties, the bow covets attention due to its Euro-style sun pad flanked by drink holders. Another nice touch was the ‘shippy’ side anchoring system with recessed Pool-style or kedge anchor and stainless-steel scuff plate. Ordinarily, such a setup would be the preserve of superyachts!

Back indoors, the aft galley and its extendable counter are well positioned to serve the assembled crowd in the cockpit – ideal for buffet lunches -- or those sitting indoors before the high-low dinette/daybed forward. The electric two-burner stove, convection microwave and domestic-sized fridge/freezer operate without the generator and, therefore, you won’t destroy the reverie at your chosen anchorage. However, the 330-litre fridge opposite the galley was perhaps a bit too prominent and will be downsized to a 270-litre model in future, we're told.

?Storage is a high point on the Greenline 40: I counted 11 cupboards including those big enough for pots in the galley alone. The light timber joinery, bone upholstery and soft-touch manmade suede create a chic Euro feel throughout. Note, also, the quality of the finish and mouldings: they surpass what you will find in higher-volume production boats from many mainstream European yards. Of course, you get a decent pop-up TV and wet bar.

Low-draw LED lighting extends to the twin cabins and communal bathroom with separate shower, porcelain sink and quiet-flush head. But one might need to splash out on a desalinator if you want to extend your stay. The standard 400 litres of water is just adequate for a family holiday. Add a few kids and you will last three days or so before needing a fill.

The stateroom with scissor beds is forward, while guests get to enjoy a portside cabin. In both cases, single inner-spring mattresses come together to create double beds for couples. And there’s ample hanging space and surrounding lockers for clobber and personal kit.

Thanks to an inverter you can enjoy the air conditioning for four hours before needing to boot the generator, we told. This appeals to me in the height of summer. Chill the boat down after lights-out, before the night air wafts through the opening portlights.

The same inverter powers the 240V onboard outlets and appliances, allowing you to cook breakfast without waking your crew or neighbours from the constant drum of a generator.

Mechanical, Electric and Hull

- Charge of the light brigade.

There’s no disputing the frugality of the Greenline 40 compared with the average low-tech motor cruiser plying and ploughing down our waterways today. As the importers put it, the Greenline offers a new way of on-water living. Even the lightweight composite hull hails from a different mould.

The so-called Superdisplacement Greenline hull seeks to reduce drag and, thus, chew less fuel. Another nice thing is that running gear is protected by the twin fins, which give directional stability, and with draught of just 0.85 metres you can most certainly access skinny waterways.

Pull the throttles back in neutral and engage a simple switch at the dash and you’re motoring in electric stealth mode. Top speed under electric power is 6 knots, but at 4 knots you can range for 20 nautical miles or five hours before the twin 240 Ah/48 V lithium batteries require recharging.

Recharging is achieved relatively quickly by plugging into Shorepower, by using the 1300 W solar panels integrated into the rooftop over the period of a few days, or by starting the diesel engines with alternators. The final option is what Greenline calls anchor-charge mode where you start a diesel engine to drive the electric motor that doubles as 5 kW generator.

This might sound confusing, but fear not. The impressive power management system from Victron, diesel-electric switching from Phoenix and VW diagnostic panels on the dash pretty much take care of themselves, relaying the status of your batteries and more, thereby putting the focus back on the journey. That we did, but not before checking out the well-insulated engine room beneath the saloon sole.

I noted clear servicing room around the VW/CMD TDI 150-5 engines, though the outboard of the portside engine is tight. Fuel and water are carried in polyethylene wing tanks, there are underwater exhausts, and visible sea strainers with glass inspection bowls. I also dug around in various hatches to find the plumbing system (pass), Lithium batteries (big) and a very serious looking electrics room (overwhelming) that will be the domain of expert sparkies.

Incidentally, all Greenlines come with an iPad renamed a Greenpad that integrates with the boat’s systems and offers boat status data, navigation and weather, communications, entertainment and access to the online Greenline community. Oh, and Boatpoint and Boatsales connectivity!

On the Water

- Smooth operator with sunny disposition.

We cast the lines, engaged the bow and stern thrusters, and decamped from the marina before weaving our way through a litter of moorings. Off-the-wheel steering at low speed was responsive, but once we called on the twin Cummins diesel engines, spinning four-blade props, the Greenline jumped.

At the automotive dash — itself a model of how to get things right — views extend in all directions and should stay that way even in inclement weather thanks to the inclusion of optional wipers. On good days, you can stand on a raised footrest and look out the sunroof.

An application of power had the boat Superdisplacement hull rising really quite level and, during testing, it seemed dry to boot. The fine, yacht-like vertical stem of the boat cuts a swathe through wake, really the only waves found on the test day. But I sense the Greenline 40 will prove a smooth operator in far worse conditions, and I would have no hesitation tackling big bays, harbours, crossing gulfs and port hopping along the coast.

Cruise speed was clocked at 9.4 knots for 20 litres per hour up to 13.5 knots for twice that consumption. Top speed seen on the day was 18.1 knots for 57 litres per hour. None of this is ground breaking -- this writer’s 42-footer with twin 480hp engines uses little more fuel at the same displacement speeds -- but the sensation is unique when you call on the electric motors, which at three knots are said to be self sufficient in bright sunshine thanks to the solar charging.

It was about then, while arcing things up to 5.5 knots cruise under electric power, that we overtook a yacht with flagging sails in the failing wind. Bet he started the diesel engine. But for us, it was a solar eclipse, indeed.

Verdict

- Futuristic and functional

In the boating world, especially in Europe, there’s increasing focus on emissions in enclosed environments like lakes. At the same time, a rising social conscience exists with pleasure boaters, especially ex-yachties accustomed to setting sail. The Greenline 40 targets this demographic, those looking to be seen to be green, and pleasure boaters who dare to be different. Yet the boat remains functional for local boaters who value such things.

Such is the faith Greenline puts in its new hybrid boats, an Ocean Class 70 Hybrid is now available with twin 800hp diesel engines and 70W electric engines for a fossil-free range of up to 40 nautical miles at six knots. A 55 Hybrid is on the drawing board, too.

Greenline says the future is now but, at the end of the day, that’s up to you to decide. Are you ready to go green?

Specifications

Price: $577,853 for a fully loaded hybrid boat with twin 150hp diesel engines, electric motors, solar recharging, electronics, teak decks and loads more.

LOA: 11.99m

Beam: 4.25m

Draft: 0.85m

Weight: About 8000kg base model lightly laden

Engines: 2 x CMD 150-5 TDi 150hp common-rail diesel engines

Generator: Integrated 5kw gennie as part of Double Hybrid upgrade

Water: 400 litres

Fuel: 700 litres

Sleeping: 4+1

Supplied by:

North South Yachting,

The Quays Marina, 1856 Pittwater Road,

Church Point, NSW, 2105

Contact Mark Whitman, Phone: (02) 9998 9607.

See northsouthyachting.com.au, www.greenlinehybrid.com.

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Greenline 40 Hybrid

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