The Azimut|Benetti Group has signed an agreement with Eni Sustainable Mobility for the supply and use of the biofuel HVOlution for yachts. The new biofuel is produced from 100% renewable raw materials and marks the start of the company’s agreement to target decarbonisation.

HVOlution is made from 100% Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and is produced in Eni Sustainable Mobility’s Venice and Gela biorefineries. The company uses raw waste materials and vegetable residues, as well as oils generated from crops that do not compete with the food chain.

From Summer 2023, Azimut|Benetti Group will introduce HVOlution to replace the fossil-based fuel currently used by the Azimut and Benetti brands. The biofuel will be used for the technical testing of new yachts, sea trials and prototype model handling.

Owners will also be able to take delivery of new Azimut models with HVOlution biofuel in the tank. According to Eni Sustainable Mobility, HVOlution is able to reduce emissions by up to 90% compared to the benchmark fossil blend. 

“This first supply of biofuel to the recreational boating industry confirms that Eni Sustainable Mobility can support maritime operators on the path to decarbonisation” commented Stefano Ballista, CEO of Eni Sustainable Mobility. “The agreement with Azimut|Benetti Group is a first step that will be followed in the coming months with increased sales of HVOlution to the maritime industry as well.”

The first voyage of Azimut’s new Magellano 60 will travel from Savona to Taormina using HVOlution. There are also future projects on the horizon with the Azimut|Benetti Group which plans to offer better access to biofuel for refuelling with HVO.

“For the Azimut|Benetti Group, this agreement is a tangible step forward on the course we have charted out to reduce CO2 emissions,” explained Azimut|Benetti Group President Giovanna Vitelli.

“It is a result that enables us to extend our area of action in emissions reduction by involving the supply chain, with a focus on energy decarbonisation. At the present time, over half of Azimut’s fleet is made up of Low Emission Yachts, while Benetti has built the world’s largest hybrid yacht as well as winning the ‘Green yacht of the year 2022’ award with the 37-metre B.yond.”