Rolls-Royce expands mtu propulsion portfolio for yachts

mtu engine displayed at the Rolls-Royce Power Systems stand at Cannes Yachting Festival

Rolls-Royce is expanding its mtu propulsion portfolio for yachts with standardised variable-speed Series 2000 gensets and a new SCR exhaust after-treatment system.

The variable-speed gensets adjust engine speed to match power demand, reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 15 per cent during operation, according to Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

“Our aim is to offer shipyards and owners a comprehensive and future-proof range of solutions for yachts,” says Dr Lukas Köhler, senior vice president global marine & mining at Rolls-Royce Power Systems. “This is not just about individual components, but about the optimal interaction of the systems on board to deliver greater performance, efficiency, and lower emissions.”

Rolls-Royce also says the gensets operate about 6dB more quietly than conventional systems. Electrical outputs range from 650 to 1,850kWe, while the compact design allows flexible installation where space is limited.

The systems are also suitable for battery-assisted marine applications and can be used as range extenders. Rolls-Royce says the product builds on its experience with diesel-electric propulsion systems, with variable-speed mtu gensets based on the Series 4000 already used on large vessels and diesel-electric propulsion systems based on the Series 2000 used on yachts.

New SCR system for emission-regulated areas

The new SCR exhaust after-treatment system expands the applications for mtu Series 2000 engines in emission-regulated sea areas.

The system is being certified in collaboration with exhaust gas after-treatment specialist Eminox. It meets IMO Tier III requirements and reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 75 per cent compared with IMO Tier II limits, according to Rolls-Royce.

Depending on the load profile, the system is designed for a service life of up to 16,000 operating hours. It does not require compressed air for dosing and can be integrated into a variety of vessel designs.

The two new systems form part of Rolls-Royce Power Systems’ wider yacht offering, which combines mtu propulsion, energy management and automation technologies.

The company says this approach is intended to reduce design and integration work for shipyards while minimising interface risks between systems. The integration of mtu propulsion systems, mtu NautIQ Bridge, and automation technologies creates a unified digital environment for managing energy flows, emissions and operational uptime.

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