Rolls-Royce debuts cleaner marine propulsion at SMM 2026

Rolls-Royce Power Systems will present a series of new propulsion technologies and service solutions at SMM 2026, with a focus on improving efficiency, reducing emissions and supporting the transition to more sustainable marine operations.

The firm is expanding its propulsion portfolio for offshore wind vessels, search-and-rescue (SAR) craft, ferries and patrol boats, while also highlighting developments in automation, after-treatment systems and lifecycle support.

Among the headline launches is the new mtu Series 2000 variable-speed generator set range, designed to optimise engine speed according to power demand rather than operating at a constant speed.

According to Rolls-Royce, the gensets can reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 15 per cent compared with conventional constant-speed generator sets, while also lowering onboard noise and vibration.

The range will be available in 8V to 16V configurations and is intended for applications including passenger ferries, hybrid and electric vessels, offshore support vessels, SAR boats, yachts and patrol craft.

The new generator sets are paired with a flexible selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment system designed to meet IMO Tier III emissions requirements, enabling vessels to operate in regulated emission control areas.

Rolls-Royce said the combination supports operators seeking greater efficiency while complying with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. 

They will also showcase its mtu NautIQ automation platform, including bridge systems and data analytics tools aimed at helping operators improve fleet efficiency, safety and operational performance across both newbuild and retrofit projects.

Alongside the technology portfolio, the company is highlighting expanded service offerings covering vessel lifecycles, including extended maintenance intervals, in-situ servicing and warranty programmes intended to maximise vessel availability and reduce operating costs.

Dr Lukas Köhler, senior vice president at Rolls-Royce Power Systems Global Marine & Mining, comments: “As a company within the Rolls-Royce Group, we actively evaluate, research and invest in future technologies to offer our customers the right propulsion technology for their fleets – both today and in the future – and support them with the expertise of our engineers and our service team throughout the entire service life of their vessels.”