autoevolution
 

Project L, the Hybrid Superyacht That Is Unlike Any Other

When designer Thierry Gaugain set out to create a new superyacht for his first solo undertaking, he thought outside the box of pre-established design norms. The result is Project L, a stunning concept for a hybrid vessel with a focus on sustainability and efficiency, and a design unlike any other.
Project L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing light 10 photos
Photo: superyachtsmonaco
Project L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing lightProject L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing light
Project L is a concept unveiled at the end of 2019 but, thanks to a partnership with Superyachts Monaco, it is ready to be built for the future owner. Pricing is available on request, and the brokerage firm promises a “work of art, a sculpture on the water that challenges the classic silhouette of the yachting horizon” that comes with all the features one would expect from a “genuinely luxurious superyacht.”

Are you sold yet?

Thierry Gaugain boasts a two-decade-long experience with Philippe Starck and a portfolio that includes Sailing Yacht A, Motor Yacht A and Venus. Project L is similar to those only in terms of Gaugain’s apparent desire to break the mold on what a superyacht should look like and, in the process, overturn expectations.

Measuring 120 meters (393 feet), Project L aims to deliver the best performance of its class. It comes with hybrid propulsion and state-of-the-art navigation tech, which, in conjunction with the shape of the hull, would deliver impressive range at minimum costs and levels of pollution (both for emissions and noise). The exterior design is inspired by a pebble or a leaf, and is smooth and apparently entirely enclosed.

That last part is just an illusion, though. The exterior of the yacht is made up of vast expanses of glazing: one-way reflective glass. This ensures maximum privacy for guests and helps the vessel “change shape” by reflecting the surrounding environment and the changing light. The idea of using mirrors and reflective surfaces to create “invisible” yachts is not new, but Project L shows just how beautifully it can be put into practice.

Project L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing light
Photo: superyachtsmonaco.com
“You won’t be able to spot the navigation, communication and technical parts that clutter so many yachts’ exteriors, because they will be hidden within the outer ‘cloak’ of Project L and deployed when necessary,” Superyachts Monaco says in the description.

According to the future owner’s desires, Project L can be made fully open, thus creating a direct connection to the ocean. The official renderings released so far show it covered under a “cloak,” with the brokerage firm saying that it will benefit from ample interconnected spaces inside. In fact, another revolutionary aspect about this superyacht is the fact that all living areas will be concentrated on just one deck and will connect to one another, creating flow.

Interior spaces will be designed to allow in as much natural light as possible, and all artificial lighting will adapt to the changing light outside, to promote calmness and relaxation. Exterior lighting will also change colors to reflect the passing of time and help the vessel blend in.

Accommodation can vary depending on the needs of the owner, ranging from 12 guests and 40+ crew, to 36 guests and 50 crew. Make no mistake about it, Project L is no dinghy.

Amenities will include a high-tech media room, a gym, two pools (one with freshwater and one with saltwater, situated on the extendable beach club at the rear), an indoor and an outdoor cinema (because just one cinema is not enough), helipad, drive-in tender garage packed with toys, a live performance area, a dive center, and polar gear room. Perhaps more impressively, Project L comes with a high-tech underwater media room (“nemo room”) and a submarine escape pod with a futuristic design to match the mother ship.

Project L, a hybrid superyacht concept that "changes shape" to mirror the environment and changing light
Photo: superyachtsmonaco.com
Further details on the interior design or even basic layout are not included in the renderings, as they are yet to be determined, pending discussions with the future owner. After all, what’s the use in getting a new, fancy-looking superyacht if you can’t have a say in the way it’ll look inside?

Focused on sustainable yachting, Project L comes with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and long-range capabilitywhile gliding through waves with minimal levels of noise and vibration. Top speed is rated at 18 knots, and maximum range at 10,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots. High capacity waste management system is included to further support the vessel’s autonomy at sea.

“She’s designed to be as smooth as a pebble, and silent on the water. Her original naval architecture allows Project L to glide through the water with hammer-like stability. Her low drag and seamless lines will ensure best-in-class levels of low noise and vibration,” Superyachts Monaco says. “Furthermore, Project L will feature a retractable ballast – like a sailboat keel – to adjust stiffness, roll time, feel and stability according to conditions, swell and wind direction when at anchor.”

In short, Project L promises to be as efficient as it’s beautiful and luxurious. Should it secure that “inspirational owner,” it will immediately go into construction.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Elena Gorgan
Elena Gorgan profile photo

Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories