ABT Sportsline is switching gears and expanding from automotive to marine. The German tuning shop, known for creating limited-edition takes on Audis, VWs, and Lamborghinis, has teamed up with Austrian yard Marian Boats to create an exclusive new electric yacht. Named simply the M 800-R, the 26-footer can soar across the seas quietly and emissions-free at speeds of up to 80km/h.
Based on Marian’s M 800 Spyder, the newcomer features a highly efficient semi-glider hull, an all-electric jet drive, and a lithium-ion battery with a 122 kWh capacity. The versatile vessel can be operated in various driving modes, from high-octane “ABT” to low-powered “Port.” In long-distance “Cruise” mode, the boat has a range of 50 miles (80 kilometres), or roughly 144 minutes.
In addition, the M 800-R is equipped with a CCS charger that enables fast charging to full in less than one hour. You can get juice from both automotive and maritime charging stations, too. To top it off, the built-in software regularly receives over-the-air updates to ensure it performs at its best.
Tech aside, the M 800-R is one elegant cruiser. Echoing ABT’s four-wheeled creations, the interior is fitted with Alcantara seats that the design duo says “offer passengers maximum comfort while driving.” Furthermore, the air intake for the engine compartment is based on the signature wheel arch vents of ABT’s Specials, while the red leather upholstery pays homage to the tuner’s corporate colour.
The 26-footer is rather spacious, too, with the foredeck alone providing seating for up to nine passengers. At the opposite end, the aft is adorned with a giant sun pad for sunning. Other highlights include an illuminated steering wheel, a high-tech 12-inch display, and underwater lighting that “creates a fascinating atmosphere on board, both by day and by night,” according to the designers.
Available in anthracite and white, the M 800-R will set you back €450,000 excluding VAT (roughly RM2.3 million plus tax). Adding to the exclusivity, only 20 examples will be built. You can see the M 800-R in person, too. The first unit will debut the Formula E race in Monaco on April 26, after which it will premiere in Austria, Germany, and Italy.
