Rolls-Royce Power Systems will showcase new marine propulsion technologies at SMM 2026, expanding its portfolio for offshore wind and search-and-rescue (SAR) vessels, ferries and patrol boats, with a focus on efficiency, sustainable fuels, intelligent automation and service offerings.
A key highlight is the new mtu Series 2000 variable-speed generator sets, which the company says offer industry-leading power density and enable up to 15% lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared with constant-speed gensets. The variable speed adapts to different load profiles, which Rolls-Royce says makes the units well suited to electric and hybrid vessels requiring efficiency, reliability and flexibility, while also reducing noise and vibration levels to improve onboard comfort. The range spans compact 8V to 16V variants for passenger ferries, SAR vessels, offshore support vessels, yachts and patrol boats.
The gensets are complemented by a new selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust aftertreatment system, designed to meet IMO Tier III emission standards for operation in emission-regulated zones.
Rolls-Royce is also expanding its automation offering through mtu NautIQ, which combines bridge solutions and data analytics to help ship operators manage fleets, for both new-builds and retrofits.
The company’s service portfolio includes extended maintenance intervals, in-situ maintenance and warranties intended to maximize vessel availability and cost-effectiveness throughout their lifecycle.
Lukas Köhler, senior vice president of global marine and mining at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, said, “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.”
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