ZF launches hybrid-ready POD Propulsion 4600 System

ZF's new system will be available to motor yachts stretching up to 40 metres in length, making it ripe for powering a new generation of superyachts. The new ZF Pod 4600 system made its debut on the Azimut Grande 26M, a five-stateroom, three-deck custom superyacht capable of speeds of up to 28 knots when powered using twin 1650hp MAN V12 diesel engines.

ZF said the new pod drive system was designed for vessels with planing and semi-displacement hulls measuring up to 130 feet and compatible with all main OEM engines up to 1700hp and at a maximum of 2450rpm.

That means the new drive technology is suitable for a wide range of recreational and professional applications where fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability were key, it said.

The system comes integrated with an exhaust and clutch, which removes the need for an extra gearbox between the engine and propeller.

It also allows ZF to provide its iAnchor joystick control system that controls drift – important when moving in tight spaces or docking – as well as futureproofing a vessel for a new range of diesel-electric drive systems on the horizon.

The pod system is optimised for two units for boats measuring 25 to 30 metres long, and in a triple layout for applications up to 40 metres.

The torpedo-shaped pods reduce drag, and helps the counter-rotating propellers with horizontal thrust.

The propellers are driven via gearbox technology initially developed for ZF’s land-based automotive and “off-highway” – think mining and so on – applications.

ZF claims the gearing’s reduction ratio allows larger propellers to be fitted to the vessel, improving efficiency.

“Compared to other pod systems on the market, the 4600 System is up to twice as powerful while still consuming up to 15 per cent less fuel than a traditional shaftline propulsion,” ZF said. 

“The 4600 system allows, on large vessels, to reduce the number of POD units necessary to reach the desired speed, which reduces the onboard system’s complexity, and reduces the vessel’s wet area, further improving propulsion efficiency.”

The pod drives are optimised for running speeds of 20 to 32 knots.

Compact packaging means boat designers are able to mount engines further aft than with traditional shaftdrive layouts, increasing room onboard for below-deck accommodations.

Because there is no propeller resistance transferred to them, the engines that power the pods can also be mounted on softer elastic mounts than shaft drives, reducing noise and vibration significantly.

ZF also supplies the two-speed gearbox for the 600hp Mercury V12 Verado, the marine industry’s first outboard engine to feature an automatic gearbox optimised for low and high speeds.