Rolls-Royce Successfully Tests High-Speed Methanol Marine Engine: Breakthrough in CO₂-Neutral Shipping Technologies
Rolls-Royce has successfully tested a high-speed marine engine running exclusively on methanol on its test bench in Friedrichshafen, Germany. The test is part of the meOHmare research project, aimed at developing propulsion solutions for shipping that significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.
The meOHmare project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy and brings together Rolls-Royce, injection system specialist Woodward L’Orange, and the WTZ Roßlau technology and research center. Work on the project began in early 2023, with the goal of creating a concept for a CO₂-neutral high-speed internal combustion engine for ships by the end of 2025.
Source: Rolls-Royce plc
According to Rolls-Royce, this test marks a key milestone in the company’s strategy to provide customers with emission-reduction solutions, aligning with the “lower carbon” pillar of its multi-year transformation program. The project also supports the Power Systems initiative to expand its marine business.
Rolls-Royce Power Systems CEO Dr. Jörg Stratmann stated: “To date, there is no other high-speed engine in this performance class that runs purely on methanol. We are investing specifically in future technologies to offer our customers efficient ways to reduce CO₂ emissions and further strengthen our leading role in sustainable propulsion systems.”
In parallel with the single-fuel methanol development, Rolls-Royce is working on a dual-fuel concept that can operate on both methanol and diesel as an interim solution until green methanol becomes more widely available. Green methanol, produced via power-to-X processes using renewable electricity, is CO₂-neutral in operation.
Rolls-Royce Global Marine Senior Vice President Denise Kurtulus emphasized: “With this successful test run, we are sending a clear signal: green methanol is a future-oriented fuel—and the technology for it is already here. The single-fuel methanol engine is an attractive solution, especially for operators of ferries, yachts, or supply vessels who want to reduce their carbon footprint. The task now is to create the framework conditions for wider use.”
In August 2024, Guangxi Yuchai Machinery Company and Rolls-Royce announced the expansion of their MTU Yuchai Power joint venture to include the production of a broader range of MTU engines in China.
