There will be plenty of modifications to make, with batteries replacing the four cyclors to power the hydraulic systems. But while the power teams have been replaced, an extra member of the sailing team has been added, with now five sailors on board – as well as a sixth spot for a guest sailor. “We’ve still got plenty to focus on,” Emirates Team New Zealand head of design Dan Bernasconi told the Herald late last year. Asked about this element of the design, Bernasconi said it was important that the change still promoted efficiency, as opposed to just giving teams an unlimited supply of power at their disposal. So, for instance, you couldn’t use it all immediately and then have nothing for the last 15 minutes,” he said.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 09, 2026 20:32 UTC