Granturismo completes first sea trials
UK, London. In September 2012 we reported on Silver Arrows Marine’s (SAM) 14m concept in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, Martin Francis and Tommaso Spadolini. The boat has completed its first sea trials and is on schedule to be delivered in 2014.…
UK, London. In September 2012 we reported on Silver Arrows Marine’s (SAM) 14m concept in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, Martin Francis and Tommaso Spadolini. The boat, which took six years to develop, has completed its first sea trials and is on schedule to be delivered in 2014.
“This was an exciting moment for Silver Arrows Marine and I am pleased to say the boat showed all the potential we expected, and more,” revealed SAM’s chief executive officer, Jacopo Spadolini. “The boat looked solid, powerful and like nothing else afloat.”
The prototype, which excluded the superstructure, was tested on an offshore racing circuit, as well as navigated around virtual corners, in order to gauge how different set-ups affected the boat’s performance, handling and comfort. Hi-tech data collection methods were used in order to provide a solid basis for future development work. Many of the techniques used, including automotive-style data acquisition, have their origins in motor racing. “Using F1-style telemetry for data logging makes a great deal of sense,” says SAM’s engineering director, Giorgio Stirano. “With equipment such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, along with GPS positioning, we have been able to build up a good picture of the boat’s abilities.”
Sea trials have provided the team with an opportunity to perfect the propulsion system and to improve the boat’s capabilities in different conditions, and in particular, to keep guests dry when at a cruising speed of 30 knots. Sea trials are expected to continue over the next couple of months.
"The success of this important first step in the development process means the SAM motoryacht is on its way,” concludes SAM's chairman, Ron Gibbs. “The hull has shown what it can do, now the focus can shift to the superstructure. We have a great deal still to do but I am confident the first SAM prototype is progressing well."
Related Links:
Silver Arrows Marine - company website
Mercedes-Benz Style - company website
Francis Design - company profile
Design Studio Spadolini - company profile
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