ifm x Malizia – Bound by a shared passion
Wind, waves and water are the natural arena of Team Malizia led by skipper Boris Herrmann. Competing against other racing teams and against the powerful forces of the world’s oceans, this professional offshore sailing team takes on the most demanding round-the-world races: the Ocean Race and the Vendée Globe. Driven by their mission,“A Race We Must Win – Climate Action Now”, Team Malizia is also setting sail to protect the oceans.
Passion is what moves the Malizia team to make their new IMOCA yacht even better and even more successful. Every detail matters in the development process. With the same passion and the same purpose, ifm develops automation technology – a commitment clearly reflected in Team Malizia’s latest racing boat.
More data. More performance.
Sensor data provides the crew on board the Malizia 4 with continuous, real-time insights into water levels in the ballast tanks and the distance between the boat and the water’s surface when it is ‘flying’ over the water on its foils. This enables Boris Herrmann and his team to get the very most out of Malizia 4 with the help of ifm sensors. As the data is also transferred to the moneo Cloud, the onshore team can analyse and use it to make future improvements to the boat.
Maximising performance
Sensor data enables both racing yachts and industrial plants to operate at maximum efficiency.
Analysing data on-site and remotely
With the moneo Cloud, the data is always available to help optimise processes, whether on the on-board display or anywhere in the world.
Designed for extreme conditions
Water, vibrations, heat, cold: whatever demands are placed on our sensors, they are built to withstand even the harshest environments – onshore and offshore.
Combining expertise to achieve more
Whether on a boat, in a mobile machine or in a factory: whatever challenges lie ahead, we work with our customers to find the perfect solution – for our shared success.
Attitude and Distance Sensing
Three R1D100 radar sensors mounted on the spreaders and bowsprit continuously measure the precise distance to the water’s surface. Using these live data feeds, the system calculates ride height in real time and dynamically optimizes trim for maximum stability at top speeds.
Ballast and Level Measurement
Four PM1789 pressure sensors deliver precise hydrostatic level measurement across the forward, aft, and lateral ballast tanks. This real-time data allows the crew to maintain exact weight balancing to optimize the righting moment.
Rudder Position Monitoring
Two IGP200 inductive sensors are integrated at the stern for mechanical end-position monitoring of the steering system. They detect when the rudder hits its maximum limits and relay these defined end positions directly to the control electronics.
Ocean Race Atlantic: 01. – 09. Sep. 2026
Racing debut for Malizia 4. The journey will take the team from New York across the Atlantic to Lorient. A first test of the boat, the crew, and the ifm sensors.
The Ocean Race Round the World: Jan. – Jul. 2027
In Alicante, we are setting sail for the world's toughest sailing race. Crew and equipment pushed to their absolute limits, 24/7, out in the middle of the ocean.
News & Updates
What’s the latest news from Team Malizia and ifm, their technical partner?
Find out first-hand here.
A Strong finish at "The Ocean Race"
After a technical setback, Team Malizia fought its way back into the tightly packed field. Although repairs were carried out at sea, the crew managed an impressive comeback, crossing the finish line just a few minutes behind the leaders and finishing in 4th place.
Ready for the high seas: Malizia 4 is christened!
After two years and 85,000 hours of hard work, the new racing yacht was officially launched in Lorient. We are proud to be on board as a partner. Congratulations to the entire team!
Team Malizia and ifm announce technical partnership
This collaboration focuses on the continued development of data-driven technologies for offshore racing.
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