iYacht unveils the new Performance 90X - A historic brand is reborn
by iYacht GmbH 17 Jan 02:55 PST
The Hamburg-based yacht design and engineering company was chosen by Performance Marine to launch the first model of a new era for the brand.
With a history of over 1,000 boats built, Performance Marine has established a legacy that cannot be overlooked. The brand's legendary hulls renowned for their handling optimal characteristics meets a new vision to bring back a boat with a strong focus on true performances. With these ingredients, iYacht was tasked to bring the Performance 90X to life and infuse new blood to the newly reborn Performance Marine.
iYacht's CEO, Udo A. Hafner stated: "This is a great project: an historic brand is reborn under German ownership. We have been involved in this from its very beginning, in addition to the design & engineering of the 90X, we also selected and brought onboard some key suppliers and we will go down until the CE certification of this boat. As a full-scope service company, this project exemplifies what we can achieve by working side by side with our clients."
The designers and engineers at iYacht have given the Performance 90X a completely new look while honouring the DNA of the brand. The result is a new boat characterised by optimised ergonomics, enhanced functionality, and a seamless blend of German high-quality craftsmanship and luxurious finishes.
A philosophy of speed rooted in experience
The Performance 90X marks both the beginning of a new era and a connection to a rich, successful heritage. At its core lies one of the most critical elements of a true sports boat: the hull. Performance's hulls have been tested and validated, with their handling characteristics widely recognised by boating enthusiasts. For this reason, this feature remains unchanged—there's no need to replace what already works flawlessly.
Everything else, however, is brand new—state-of-the-art engine technology, advanced systems, and a stunning interior packed with all the luxury and amenities imaginable.
After over a year of development, the Performance 90X is now ready to enter production, and will be built in Germany with passion and expertise. This Reborn Hero symbolises a bold step forward, built on the solid foundation of over 40 years of brand heritage and 20 years of expertise from the engineers and designers behind the scenes.
A powerful design language
The air inlets immediately reveal the racing-inspired design language of the Performance 90X. Sleek lines, a modern cockpit, and a spacious interior all come together to create a striking visual statement.
Joachim Benders, yacht designer at iYacht, explained the creative process: "We began by analysing previous models to identify core design elements, which we then reinterpret or integrate into the new direction envisioned by our client. One of the biggest constraints for us was to give a fresh new look while maintaining the existing hull. This made the process both demanding and rewarding, and it was a great satisfaction achieving such a successful outcome."
iYacht took on the dual responsibility of designing and engineering the 90X, a project that presented significant challenges on both fronts. From an engineering perspective, one of the most demanding aspects was the deck. Comprising nearly 20 moulded parts, this component is an intricate structure that stands out as one of the most complex for a boat of this size.
This level of complexity required meticulous planning and precision.
Frauke and Stefan von Klebelsberg, owners of the brand, are convinced that they can successfully explore new paths for the brand together with iYacht: 'The partnership with iYacht has been stimulating and engaging from the very beginning. iYacht has been able to develop our ideas and design a boat that will excite owners, give them genuine emotions and offer extraordinary performance,' says Frauke. Stefan adds: 'Of course, the unique and distinctive essence of the Performance brand could not be lost, and thanks to our collaboration with iYacht, it has not only been preserved but also renewed.'
The cockpit of the Performance 90X is a true technological masterpiece. Its keyless ignition system not only allows for start and stop functionality without keys but also serves as a wireless engine cut-off switch, adding to the overall safety. Owners can choose between dual screens for a modern, fully digital interface, or a blend of analogue and digital instruments. Following extensive analysis on the ergonomics around the cockpit, all instruments and switches were finally optimally positioned, ensuring that all vital controls and displays are within the perfect field of vision without distracting or compromising the view of the surrounding scenery.
The Performance 90X incorporates a modern bias lighting concept. This RGB lighting system can be controlled through an app, smartphones, or onboard screens, enabling users to adjust the lighting's colour and intensity to create the perfect mood for any occasion—whether it's a relaxing evening or a lively celebration.
Multiple screens are strategically positioned across the boat so that everyone on board—driver, co-pilot, and passengers—can view important information like the boat's speed or interact with the infotainment system.
The integration of remote functionality makes the Performance 90X truly future-ready. Lights, sound systems, refrigeration, and even system monitoring (e.g. battery level, fuel, engine status) can be accessed and controlled remotely via the boat's app. Whether you're on the way to the boat or planning your perfect trip, every detail can be arranged to suit your preferences - like cooling drinks or setting the mood- delivering a seamless and luxurious boating experience.
90X: Propulsion for high speeds
One of the primary challenges for the iYacht's engineering team was to meet the demand for exceptional speed while ensuring compatibility for series production and allowing for the customisation of each individual boat.
To achieve this level of customization, an equipment matrix was developed, which only reached its optimal configuration after extensive collaboration between the shipyard, designers, and selected suppliers.
The propulsion options, featuring Mercury MerCruiser engines, range from 430 HP to 1,130 HP and are paired with the Bravo One XR drive, engineered to handle the power of big-block engines. This setup allows the Performance 90X to achieve a tremendous speed in its 832 kW version.
The Mercury Zero Effort DTS system replaces traditional throttle and shift cables with cutting-edge digital precision, delivering instantaneous throttle response. This advanced technology ensures an unmatched driving experience with ultra-fast performance.
For even greater ease of handling and docking, the Joystick Piloting System is available as an optional feature. The system integrates engines, gearboxes, steering, and thrusters into a single intuitive unit that simplifies one of the most stressful aspects of boating—docking.
Ergonomics and interiors
Every aspect of the Performance 90X's design has been reimagined to give a great onboard experience: from the upholstery and cushions to the lighting, the ergonomics of the driver's platform, the glazing and hatches, and the entire cabin layout—including the wet room with a thoughtfully integrated toilet.
Joachim reflects on the design process: "I spent a great deal of time focusing on ergonomics—exploring the relationship between function, space, and people. I carefully analyse how guests move onboard, and assess how the design translates into real-world experiences for users."
All seating and lounging areas have been designed with one guiding principle: achieving the perfect balance of form, function, and aesthetics. Performance Marine will offer a wide range of customisation options for both the interior and exterior, ensuring each boat reflects its owner's style. The optional premium sound system enhances every moment on board, delivering a rich and sophisticated audio experience that can be tailored to suit any occasion.
The cabin of the 90X was reimagined to optimize available space, allowing for more usable areas within the same footprint compared to its predecessor. This approach has resulted in a more comfortable wet room, featuring an integrated washbasin strategically positioned to free up additional space around the toilet. This thoughtful design makes the area more user-friendly.
With a net headroom of 1.75 metres, the cabin feels spacious and comfortable, equipped with a king-size bed—a luxurious space to relax.
For Udo A. Hafner and his team of 12 engineers, designers, and naval architects, contributing to the revival of this iconic brand was a rewarding challenge.
Since 1985, Performance Marine has been synonymous with excellence in boatbuilding, crafting vessels with iconic hull designs, instantly recognisable aesthetics, and unparalleled handling characteristics. Now, under new German ownership, the brand enters a new chapter of its legacy.
The New 90X, designed and engineered by iYacht marks the rebirth of Performance Marine, and additional models are already under development.
Performance 90X
- LOA: 9.15 m
- Beam: 2.60 m
- Draft: 0.43 m
- Max power: 832 kW (1115 HP)
- Water tank: 117 l
- Fuel tank: 600 l
- Design category: B
- Passenger: 8
- Design & Engineering: iYacht GmbH