Hydrodrive Joins SP80 Project

Aviation-grade precision meets extreme marine innovation.

We are proud to share that Hydrodrive® hydraulic steering systems, developed by Techno Italia Kft., have been selected as the official steering solution for the SP80 project—a revolutionary Swiss initiative aiming to break the world sailing speed record.

Currently, the record stands at 65.45 knots (121.1 km/h), achieved in 2012 by Paul Larsen on the Vestas Sailrocket 2. However, the SP80 team plans to surpass this with a 10-meter carbon-fibre trimaran, propelled not by traditional sails but by a high-speed kite. With target speeds reaching up to 80 knots, the vessel demands absolute control—making Hydrodrive the ideal partner.

Why Hydrodrive Was Selected

“It’s not only about strength. It’s also about precision,” explains Dr. Matteo Dadda, CCO of Hydrodrive.

At Hydrodrive, we bring aerospace expertise to marine applications. Our family-run company has produced steering components for Rolls Royce, Fiat Avio, and Agusta, and we apply the same high standards to every hydraulic system we build.

After extensive testing, the SP80 team chose Hydrodrive for its combination of mechanical integrity, responsiveness, and ease of integration. Our systems deliver smooth, kickback-free steering with zero slack, even at high speeds. In extreme conditions, there is no room for compromise—only precision.

Designed for Performance and Simplicity

While other systems may require frequent oil refills or adjustments, Hydrodrive systems are fully sealed and designed to run maintenance-free.

“We keep things simple,” says Dr. Dadda. “Our hydraulic rams stay under constant pressure, which prevents internal leakage. You just plug it in, fill the reservoir, purge the air, and it’s ready to go.”

Each Hydrodrive system includes everything needed for installation—from the pump and cylinder to hoses, oil, and even a wrench kit. That’s why we confidently back our products with a 3-year warranty.

A Groundbreaking Vessel Backed by Experts

The SP80 trimaran is more than just a boat—it’s a feat of modern engineering. Designed and built in collaboration with North Thin Ply Technology, Persico Marine, and Sinergia Racing Group. The boat uses ultra-light carbon fibre for maximum speed and control.

Notably, the project also attracted support from Swiss watchmaker Richard Mille, whose innovations in carbon fibre made them the ideal partner. Their involvement underscores the SP80’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries—and so does their decision to trust Hydrodrive.

More Than a Steering System—A Statement of Engineering

The forces from the kite are directed through a unique “power module,” ensuring that lift forces align perfectly with the underwater foils. As a result, the craft stays level and fast—without risk of uncontrolled lift. Hydrodrive’s role is to keep the boat on course with precision, even as it approaches three times the wind speed.

This partnership proves that Hydrodrive is more than a marine steering brand—we’re part of the future of sailing innovation.

More on the project at www.sp80.ch
and on the Hydrodrive product range at www.hydrodrive.eu.